HALF-a-million adults in the North-East feel they are held back at work by a lack of maths, English or computer skills, according to a survey.

The figures show that almost a quarter of adults in the region feel a deficiency of these basic skills is holding them back - suggesting that, compared to the rest of the UK, twice as many people in the North-East could be missing out at work because they lack the right skills.

The research was commissioned by learndirect to highlight the importance of skills and comes as the organisation is launching the learndirect Achievement Awards.

Matt Dawson, the former England rugby international and Strictly Come Dancing star, has pledged his support to the awards.

He said: " The people, businesses and learning centres recognised by the awards in the North-East will be those who have gone the extra mile to develop skills. By working to improve themselves they are contributing to the success of the North-East and the country too.

Government Minister for Skills Phil Hope, who launched the awards, said: "Poor skills have a hugely detrimental effect on people's life chances. As the largest government supported e-learning initiative in the world, learndirect is improving national productivity by providing widespread access to world-class learning, helping people fulfil their potential and helping businesses thrive."

Nominations for learndirect Achievement Awards can be made by logging on to www. learndirect.co.uk/awards