TEENAGER Jonathan Elson was excited to get behind the wheel after passing his test.

But the Milnsbridge lad was shocked when a company demanded nearly £50,000 to insure his £500 car.

“I thought it was ridiculous,” said the 19-year-old. “The quote was nearly 100 times what the car is worth.

“How are young people supposed to be able to pay such extortionate insurance premiums?

“These companies are effectively pricing the next generation of drivers out of the market.”

Jonathan found the quote after passing his test two weeks ago.

“Ever since I got my provisional licence I couldn’t wait to have a car,” he said.

“I was happy when I passed my test because having a car means I can go where I want without having to worry about catching four buses to get there.”

Jonathan’s father bought him an 11-year-old green Fiat Brava 1.4 for £500 after he passed his test.

But he was shocked with the insurance quotes from a comparison website.

Jonathan said: “I put the car details in and put my mum and dad down as named drivers.

“The worst figure it came up with was £47,414. Even the cheapest quote was for more than £8,000.”