TWELVE community groups in east Cleveland are to make use of free refurbished computers and video and DVD players.

The give-away has been made possible by donations from individuals and organisations in addition to funding for the project by the Tees Valley Community Foundation.

The computers, printers, video and DVD players were about to be scrapped when business organisation Community Computer Technicians was alerted.

The equipment was rescued, tested, all information wiped and then loaded with new software for the groups.

All of the computers were made Internet-ready

They have also been loaded with business software so users are able to keep accounts, produce meeting minutes and letters, publish newsletters and make presentations.

The groups can also get training and support from Community Computer Technicians, also as a result of funding from Tees Valley Community Foundation.

Groups receiving equipment range from Scouting associations to support health care organisations and homing pigeon associations.

Neil Harland, of Community Computer Technicians, said: "During our normal work, we fix lots of problems for individuals and businesses, but it's great to be able to do this project to hand something back and also to be able to recycle useful equipment.

"We are hoping to do this again for another area."