Yeah. He's quite rural, same as I am (but mine not quite so as his area). There are kids as young as around eight driving the things, with younger passengers on board, around here.
Helmets equal "pussy drivers"? You ever walked into a door/lamppost/cupboard/wall? Felt how much it hurt? I've done it and required stitches. We walk at 3 miles per hour. Now throw your head at a wall, post or tarmac at 30mph. 40. 60. More. Let me know how you get on. But I've known folk with impact induced brain damage. That said, it's your life. Your head. Your choice. Your prospective wheelchair. Your funeral.