ACTION for Blind People, in Preston, has joined forces with a similar Blackburn-based group to create a new computer centre.

The 'cyber centre', which will be officially opened in Blackburn next Friday, will give blind and partially-sighted people access to computers and the Internet.

Blackburn and District Blind Society has helped create the facility, backed by £4,000 from Marks & Spencer.

A pilot project has been running for six months, and there is now a waiting list to join the permanent scheme.

Aldric Brookes, manager of the Preston Training Centre for Action for Blind People, said: "We are pleased to be able to extend our service to those who would otherwise be unable to benefit because of travelling difficulties."

Mike Mulcahy, chief executive of the Blackburn group, said: "Although I was aware of some interest in this project I have been overwhelmed by the number of blind and partially-sighted people who want to join."