SIX months ago 83-year-old Ian McGowan had never even switched on a computer, let alone mastered the art of spreadsheets. But now the pensioner has learnt a wide range of computer skills which have opened up a whole new world.

Ian, of Pleckgate Road, Blackburn, was one of 20 retired trade union members who tackled a computer course to bring their skills up to scratch.

Mr McGowan was the eldest of the group, and says he has really enjoyed the course: "I think it's a great thing for every senior citizen to do, as it keeps the brain active. I'll be disappointed now the course is finished, so I've a bought a new computer myself," he said.

"I was a bit apprehensive at the start, but now I'm really interested in it, and I've got a lot of confidence, especially in desktop publishing."

Ian, along with most of the silver surfers from across East Lancashire, had never even switched a computer on before attending the 18-week course, which is the first TUC-approved IT course specially designed for retired members. The group range in age from 60 to 83, and are retired members of the printers' union (GPMU), the T&GWU and the AEEU.

Every Friday for the last 18 weeks, they have attended three hour sessions at the Blackburn Trade Union Education Centre in Preston New Road.

They have learnt a wide range of computer skills in word processing, database, spread sheets and desk top publishing.

The students have received their certificates, and are also in line to achieve the RSA qualification in Computer Literacy and Information Technology.

John Murphy, unit head and course tutor, said: "It was a brilliant course, designed specially for older people. Many of them never had the opportunity to acquire any computer skills before. But what they lacked in experience, they made up for in determination and enthusiasm."

He is planning to put on further courses in Blackburn and will now be recommending that TUC units elsewhere address the needs of their retired members.

Dave McNulty, manager for lifelong learning at Blackburn with Darwen's local education authority, has been fully supportive of the project throughout.

He said: "In encouraging a learning society, we cannot afford to overlook the needs of older people. After a lifetime in paid employment, they deserve a chance to develop these new interests and skills. And the impact on younger generations of their granny and grandad being computer whizz-kids should not be underestimated!"

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