A COMPUTER course for beginners is proving hugely popular with students across the age ranges only weeks after being launched in Wootton Bassett.

The free basic 120 hour beginners' course is being run at Swindon College's new first floor learning centre at Borough Fields shopping centre, just off the High Street.

The centre, with 76 computers and seven tutors, was officially opened by the town mayor Bill Roberts on Thursday, but is already a hit with students from a wide range of ages and situations.

Mark Bower, 22, said: "I'm doing this course to increase my prospects at work. I injured my back a couple of years ago and will not be able to do the same type of job again, so this course is ideal.

"I live in Wootton Bassett, and I'm really pleased to have this training available locally.''

Ann Godfrey, who retired recently, said: "It's absolutely super. I decided I would like to get a better knowledge of the computer, and this is just what I need. Everyone is so helpful, and I find I am enjoying the course.''

Sheila Rumming, a farmer's wife, was equally enthusiastic. "There's so much paperwork involved in farming nowadays that we aim to put it all on computer so although I'd never touched a computer before, I decided to learn how to cope with one. The staff here are so helpful, supportive and friendly.''

Centre manager John Nield said the new base is part of Swindon College's growing network of community training facilities.

"It is a very exciting move, designed to offer local people from all walks of life easy access to computer training and to our broader range of courses," he said. The centre offers nationally recognised qualifications, including City and Guild Level 1 and 2 computing certificates.

"It is an exciting time for learners in Wootton Bassett," said Mr Nield.

"We have seven tutors, who can be called for assistance at any time during the session. The beginners' course is always going to be free of charge.

"The only payment will be required from those people who want a formal qualification, which will be based on a series of assessments. If they do the whole programme, this will be £47, but they can pay as little as £28.

"There are optional elements to the course.''

The new centre houses the college's adult community education area office, which has moved from Manor House.

Further information on the courses on officer is obtainable on freephone 0800 731 2250.