Thousands of UK motorists are suffering from rusty drive syndrome, it has been claimed.

Research by insurer Churchill has shown that two-fifths of motorists who drive infrequently feel that their performance behind the wheel suffers because they have not taken to the roads in some time.

More than one in ten motorists wait two or more years before getting back into the driving seat, the findings show.

The main ensuing result is rusty driver syndrome, with people becoming out of practice, the insurer states.

Spokesperson for the firm Frances Browning suggests that rusty motorists take a refresher course every so often, which could help them avoid becoming a liability on the roads.

It was recently announced that learner drivers would face more expensive driving tests comprising additional questions, with the total queries posed reaching 50 rather than the former total of 35.