Clampers to face test on anger skills

The first national certificate in wheel clamping is launched today in a bid to boost the image of one of Britain's most unpopular jobs.

It will focus on teaching clampers how to avoid provoking furious motorists into violence.

Exam board Edexcel, which developed the BTEC in Vehicle Immobilisation, said candidates have to learn "communication skills and conflict management" in order to pass the GCSE-standard course.

Mounting concern about the invasion of criminal gangs into the wheel-clamping business prompted the Government to introduce a licensing scheme. All clampers must be licensed from the end of February next year.