THE launch of a new cyber caf in Whitworth has saved youngsters travelling the length of the Rossendale Valley for free internet access.

Centre 515, in Market Street, is now home to a cyber caf with a suite of internet-linked computers while an adviser will also be on hand during opening hours to deal with any queries from the young people about employment, education, health or leisure.

The site will open every Monday and Wednesday between 3.30pm and 6pm.

If the initiative proves successful and more funding can be found, the opening hours will be extended.

Before the launch of the cyber caf, young people from the village had to travel as far as Rochdale or Rawtenstall if they wanted to visit their nearest Connexions youth advice office.

But now youngsters aged 13 to 19 are welcome to drop into the centre without making an appointment.

Whitworth is one of 17 ICT learning centres to be launched for young people across the whole of Lancashire thanks to a £380,000 investment.

Lancashire County Council's youth and community service has joined forces with principal sources of funding, including the Northwest Development Agency's North West Broadband Fund, the Rural Development Fund and the East Lancashire Partnership.

Centre manager Paula Mills, who has worked with the young people of Whitworth for 18 years, said: "Gaining internet access for the centre has been something I've been trying to do for years, so I'm thrilled that we've got it.

"Having Connexions on board will make such a big difference for the young people as they can access so much information on their doorstep."

The site will officially open on Wednesday.

Rural and tourism director for the East Lancashire Partnership, Janet Mitton, said: "This is an excellent project and we are delighted to be able to help fund it.

"Bringing the internet and broadband services to rural communities is absolutely vital and will be particularly welcomed by young people."