A COMPUTER course has opened up a career for a volunteer in north Durham.

Wendy Stead, from Burnhope, near Stanley, started a basic computer course a year ago through the Learning Network Project and then took a beginner's computing qualification.

She decided to become a volunteer for the project, a partnership between Durham County Council, Return to Learn and Derwentside College, and held weekly drop-in sessions for others wanting to develop their computer skills.

Now she is completing a European Computer Driving Licence, and has secured an administration post with Groundwork at Craghead Village Hall.

Ms Stead said: "I was delighted when I found out that I had got the job.

"I feel my confidence has really increased with completing all of these computer courses and all of my voluntary work has shown me that I have a passion for helping others."

For details on training courses or voluntary work in Derwentside through the Learning Network Project, contact Lyndsay Mallabar on 0191-383 4943.