AT the other end of the scale from the new Audi models must surely be the far more ecology friendly child-sized models of the Peugeot 207 Driving School Ride at Alton Towers which has been vote the most popular children's ride at this Staffordshire theme park. Almost one year from its launch these little battery powered machines have achieved a popularity rating of 9.5 out of 10.

Aimed at the under 10s, each driver is given a safety briefing before they hit the road and the ride helps to teach them the basics of the Highway Code.

As most youngsters cannot wait to get behind the wheel of a car the sooner they start - in safety and with proper instruction - the better it is going to be. Never one to miss an opportunity, cunningly Peugeot has a showroom strategically located next to the ride.

If you want a life-sized 207, the range starts from £8,885 OTR.