EAST Lancashire businesses have benefited from an IT training course.

The course has been praised by newsagent Arthur Wade, who commented: "I have a computer at my shop, but I was not confident to use it.

"Now after this course I use Internet and e-mail to explore more opportunities for my business."

Imdad Hussain, who runs a television repair shop said: "It has built my confidence and the qualification I achieved has opened more opportunities for me."

The course at the Stoneyholme and Daneshouse youth and community centre was delivered by Burnley Telematics, a community IT training company and was funded by the government's Single Regeneration Budget, department of Employment and Skill under Individual Learning Account Scheme with private contributions by the businesses.

The project, which started last year, achieved its target by building confidence in computers and leading to recognised qualifications.

Project manager Ejaz Hussain said: "It was an excellent opportunity for the local businesses to learn new skills in ICT. I am pleased that all the participants not only learnt about computers but also achieved a recognised qualification."