ADULTS with learning disabilities have been working on a project to brighten up Christmas and improve the lives of African children.

Evesham Day Centre users have refurbished 10 computers which will now be sent to the Glory Baptist School in Gambia, allowing disadvantaged youngsters to improve their education.

They will be delivered to the 3,000-pupil school by the Glory Baptist Project, Worcester, which is driving five minibuses, a support vehicle and a VW Golf to the school on December 20.

Tony Mann, who runs the day centre in Davies Road, set up the charity Tech-ability to recycle computers for adults with learning disabilities. He works with County Hall, Worcester, to salvage the county council’s old machines.

The 57-year-old removes data from the machines and the centre users clean and reassemble them ready to be shipped off to other adults with learning disabilities, or to the developing world via Cheltenham-based charity IT Schools Africa.

Mr Mann set up Tech-ability seven years ago as a response to companies discarding usable computers.

He said: “Loads of computers were just being thrown into skips and I thought it wasn’t a good idea. Tech-ability avoids landfill, it’s recycling and everybody wins. Tech-ability’s aim is to give the computers to people with learning disabilities, but failing that, we look to the third world and we’re happy to help out wherever we can.”

Dave Connellan, trustee of the Glory Baptist Project, is leading the Christmas convoy to Gambia. He said: “I’m delighted that Tony has been able to donate 10 computers,. We’re very grateful. They will transform children’s lives.”

The Glory Baptist Project is looking for sports and educational equipment to take to Gambia.

To donate goods or to sponsor the mission, call Dave Connellan on 07973 265632.