Sue Mcllwraith, of Hill Top, West Bromwich, West Midlands, said she was delighted to have made the breakthrough after spending �7,000 on tuition since 1996.

The 46-year-old grandmother said despite her marathon quest to tear up her L-plates, she had always been determined to pass.

"I've got to be honest - I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer when it comes to driving and I just didn't get it at all," said Mrs Mcllwraith.

"I don't do much for the cause of women drivers in general, but I am a determined person and when I put my mind to something I refuse to give up."

The newly-qualified driver's husband Colin said his wife had shown a persistent attitude in the wake of all 19 failed tests.

"She persevered from day one and she kept putting in for her test when others would have given up," he said.