A CENTRE offering support and education for women is celebrating the official opening of new premises.

The Bridge Women's Education and Support Project's new facilities in the old Co-op building, behind Front Street, in Chester-le-Street were officially opened by district council leader Councillor Linda Ebbatson.

Training and development worker Andrea Conlon said the service, which has several centres in the Washington area, had been in Chester-le-Street for a number of years.

The new premises will run three morning sessions and three afternoon sessions every day.

The project, working with New College Durham, offers a variety of courses, including maths and English, forensic science, crafts and confidence building.

It also provides support services, with a drop-in service on Thursday mornings, where women can have a cup of tea while being offered one-to-one help.

For further information, contact 0191-389 1504.