Nine out of ten drivers who have tried winter tyres in a safety demonstration now say they are very keen to switch to the seasonal rubber after seeing and experiencing the safety benefits.

Continental is running free taster sessions at the Mercedes-Benz World centre in Surrey with two A Class hatchbacks, one with summer tyres and one on winter treads.

More than 1,000 motorists have already experienced the tests and the responses show a clear enthusiasm for the winter rubber.

Before the tests, 82% of those who took part had never experienced winter tyres. Following them 98% said that they exceeded their expectations and 90% said they are now very keen to use them.

On average, UK drivers are six times more likely to have an accident during the winter months with the numbers rising when snow and ice add an extra hazard.

In temperatures below 7 degrees, a vehicle fitted with winter tyres will come to standstill on a snow-covered road from 30 mph in 35 metres; with normal tyres the stopping distance is a further 8 metres – another two car lengths.

Mark Griffiths, safety expert at Continental Tyres, said: “Year on year our free winter tyre tests work towards educating motorists on why winter tyres make such a difference. With demonstrations such as these, we aim to educate consumers about the vast increase in safety by simply changing your tyres can make. Fitting a car with seasonal tyres is one of the easiest methods of improving vehicle safety on the roads”.