ELDERLY people are being given the chance to become up to date with modern technology, thanks to a Worcester sheltered housing scheme.

Himbleton House Very Sheltered Housing Scheme has teamed up with Age Concern and the Adult Education Unit at Worcester College of Technology to run computer courses throughout the summer.

The pilot scheme, the brainchild of Hereford and Worcester Age Concern, started yesterday, with sessions running from 2pm to 4pm, for 10 weeks.

If the course is successful, it will be offered to other sheltered housing schemes throughout the city.

Twenty-four tenants have already signed up, including 94-year-old Edna Hyatt. The youngest student is 79.

Participants will learn about all aspects of working with computers and will gain a college certificate at the end. The course is free for those who wish to take part, with tutors from the college providing the teaching.

Coursework will concentrate on producing a Jubilee brochure, with tenants recording their memories of the Queen's Coronation and the Silver Jubilee.

The sessions are open to all Himbleton House tenants as well as pensioners who visit the scheme for social events.

"This is an excellent opportunity for people to brush up on their computer skills and learn new ones," said Cath Hill, scheme manager at Himbleton House.

"We're hoping that they will adapt to the technology. Some elderly people are scared of computers, so it's brilliant to be able show them how they work.

"We were delighted when Age Concern and the Adult Education Unit approached us to discuss the possibility of running such a course and we hope that it is a real success."

The tenants will be able to practice their new-found skills on a computer donated to the housing scheme by Age Concern.

To take part, contact Cath Hill on 01905 748 144.