02/07/2026
Twenty-five years… where has that time gone?
I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting recently, and it feels like the right time to share something that’s been on my mind.
Twenty-five years ago, I was given the opportunity to train as a driving instructor by Nigel Maplethorpe. I’ll always be grateful to Nigel for his guidance, encouragement and belief in me. Together we’ve had the privilege of being part of a driving school that has helped so many people take one of the biggest steps towards independence. Thank you Nigel.
I’d also like to express my sincere thanks to everyone at Drayton Motors Kia. For many years they’ve provided outstanding service, support and advice, helping to keep Somerby Driving School on the road with reliable vehicles and first-class customer care. Their professionalism and friendship have been truly appreciated throughout the journey.
A special thank you also to Paul, whose creativity, expertise and dedication in designing and maintaining the Somerby Driving School website have been invaluable. His work behind the scenes has helped the business reach so many people over the years, and I’m incredibly grateful for all his support as well as Alan for his fantastic designs with the logos and more.
Somerby Driving School has been a huge part of my life. It’s never just been about teaching people to drive, it’s been about meeting wonderful people, sharing laughs, calming nerves, celebrating test passes and watching confidence grow. Those are the memories I’ll always treasure.
As many of you know, life changes, and so do priorities. I’ve decided to slow things down and move into a much more part-time way of working. With that comes another change. For the time being, I’ll be putting the Somerby Driving School name to one side and continuing under my own name:
Nigel Truman Driver Coaching
Over the next few weeks you’ll see this page change its name, and the Somerby signs and website will gradually disappear. The name may be changing, but my passion for helping people learn to drive certainly isn’t.
I’m not saying goodbye to Somerby Driving School forever. The name has meant far too much to me for that. For now, though, it feels like the right moment to begin a new chapter while looking back with enormous gratitude at everything the last 25 years have brought.
To everyone who has learned with me, trusted me with their son or daughter, recommended me to others, stopped for a chat, or simply supported me over the years, thank you. You’ve helped make this far more than a job. You’ve made it a lifetime of memories, friendships and experiences that I’ll always be grateful for.
Every pupil I’ve taught has become part of my story, and I hope in some small way I’ve become part of theirs too.
Here’s to the next chapter.
Thank you, as always, for your support.
Nigel
