Readers have shared their views over learner drivers in west Cumbria are being forced to travel up to 120 miles to sit their theory tests due to a lack of availability in the area.

Driving instructors say that students have been unable to secure a test at the centre in Workington due to the huge backlog caused by the pandemic.

They say learners have had to travel as far as Blackpool and Preston to sit the test, while others have had to go to Kendal and Barrow.

The theory test centre in Workington,which is based at the Old Town Hall, is currently only open two days a week.

Peter Gaston, a driving instructor in Workington, is now calling for the centre to open five days a week to help work through the backlog.

Commenting on the issue, Julie Brown said: "You can't book a test anywhere within 100 miles of Carlisle.

"Been trying for weeks at test centres from Galashiels to Barrow and even Newcastle and Blackpool. Nothing. Ridiculous."

Nicola Bales wrote: "Been trying for my son for months and there has been nothing."

Hayley Wisbey posted: "I've been trying too. It's just crazy how much of a back log there is. I do think to get the waiting times down they'd be better off opening test centres for longer hours for a while, giving more chances of a test being booked."

Dawn Graham commented: "The nearest place that one of my family who lives in Langholm could get his theory test was one at Morpeth. I'd say a two hour journey just to get there."