PEOPLE on low incomes can apply for free computers from a new charity in Wiltshire.

Swindon and Wiltshire Computer Recycling has 150 computers to give away to needy people or groups.

The project has been funded through grants of £18,000 from the Swindon-based company Innogy and £2,000 from the Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation, based in Devizes.

The 150 computers have come from Wiltshire-based Westlea Housing Association and Access Computers, a former charity based in Swindon.

The computer recycling project is an extension of Kennet Furniture Recycling, which is based in Devizes and provides secondhand furniture to people in need.

Project manager Doug Western said: "The computers are for people who are socially disadvantaged.

This could include people who receive means tested benefits or live in rural isolation.

"We have application forms for people to apply for a computer and we have an independent committee who will determine the applications."

The project has taken on three volunteers who are refurbishing and updating the computers, which are over five years old, to multi media status so they can be connected to the Internet.

The first recipient is the charity Kennet Action for Single Homeless based in Devizes.

It has received two computers, one with Internet access and the other for use by KASH users to learn keyboard skills and to prepare CVs and application letters.

Kate Hunter, development director of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation, said: "We are thrilled to help this project.

"We have funded Kennet Furniture Recycling on and off for many years and they do such fantastic work in the local area."

Innogy's funding came from landfill tax credits and as an integrated energy company it likes to support recycling projects in the community.

Innogy spokesman Linda Worley said: "We are giving financial support to the project because we like the idea of it helping potentially disadvantaged people."