The Department for Transport’s Safed (safe and fuel-efficient driving) for vans programme has trained its 10,000th driver since it was launched in 2006.

The programme offers an average saving of £500 per driver per year by reducing fuel consumption by an average 16%.

Transport minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "To train 10,000 in less than three years is a real achievement with important benefits for road safety and the environment.

"In difficult economic times, driver training can provide a real boost to business by improving fuel efficiency and teaching the driving skills necessary to keep vans in good condition.

Tony Holt, BT safety adviser for travel and transport, said: "Safed training makes sense for safety, financial and environmental reasons.”