A TRAINING centre which works with people with support needs has been awarded a PC and three years' free internet access thanks to grants from BT and the Co-operative Funeral Service.

Freshfields Enterprises is based at Morecambe's Lodge, Cemetery Lane, Burnley, and works with people with learning disabilities.

It has been awarded the equipment and one year's Internet access from the BT Community Connections scheme.

The community initiatives fund run by the Co-operative Funeral Service, Colne Road, Burnley, the centre has underwritten other charges and running costs for up to three years.

Senior trainer and assistant manager at Fresh Fields Joan Ainsworth said: "We are absolutely delighted with our BT Community Connections award.

"The use of an Internet-ready PC will give trainees and the local community the chance to meet friends and generally have a greater degree of Internet access than ever before.

"We are also grateful that the Co-operative Service has taken away any anxiety about being able to maintain this valuable service in the future."

The group aims to use the Internet access to allow trainees with special learning requirements and residents of the local community to access IT.

Anne McCracken, BT Community Connections project manager for the North West, said: "This year-long scheme aims to give as many people as possible access to the Internet and allows groups to develop their projects using easier and more effective methods."

Angela Worrall, regional manager of the Co-operative Funeral Service, said: "Co-operative Services has had a long standing commitment to support initiatives by organisations in the community to empower people who are otherwise excluded from opportunities.

"We are keen to back up the BT award by making sure Fresh Fields can provide the Internet-linked service to all its users for at least the next three years."