A FREE computer course in Callow End has proved so popular that there is already a waiting list for next term.

But in nearby Powick, no one has shown any interest in taking up the offer of a similar course.

"It's strange. Perhaps they are all computer-literate in Powick, but I haven't had any takers," said county councillor Tom Wells, who helped set up the 12-week course, under a government Lifelong Learning initiative.

He has also started courses in Welland and Hanley Swan, with another planned for Bushley.

They are run by Evesham and Malvern Hills College, in partnership with Worcestershire County Council, to introduce people of all ages to the basics of how to use a modern computer.

"For each course, you need to have a venue and 12 interested people and then the only cost is the hire of the hall, which is shared between those taking part," said Coun Wells.

"It's nice to see things coming into the villages, because we often feel we don't get the same sort of deal as urban dwellers.

"Besides giving people an elementary understanding of computers, it brings them together from the community and that is important as well."

The Callow End sessions are on Monday afternoons, but some courses are held in the evenings.

Those interested in joining a new course at Callow End in September should contact Coun Wells on 01905 831752.