A VILLAGE near Darlington has won a two-year campaign to get online.

Residents of Middleton St George applied for a computer learning centre in 2002 but feared they would not get it because the village is not in a deprived area.

The bid was eventually successful but the scheme was delayed after arsonists set fire to Middleton St George Primary School, which was to provide the broadband connection.

Now the centre, in the Women's Institute hut, has been officially opened.

Ward councillor and former mayor Doris Jones said: "Two years ago I read there was something available so I applied for the village.

"Normally it is for deprived areas but I thought I would have a go because we are really isolated out here. We have to think of the young mums who need to get back to work and pensioners.

"Two years ago I never envisaged I would be standing here opening this today but to my relief we have been successful." The learning centre was a joint scheme between Darlington Learning Partnership and the UK Online project teams at Darlington College of Technology and Darlington Borough Council.

The teams developed a community partnership with Middleton St George Women's Institute, the primary school and the parish council.

More than 50 learners, aged 30 to 88, have enrolled on more than 90 courses.

Villager Maureen Crawford, who is in her eighties, had never used a computer before. She said: "I was afraid at first but you soon come to realise how foolproof computers are.

"You make mistakes, yes, but you learn from those mistakes. Now I find it all fascinating and am often on the computer for hours."

The UK Online Centre is one of nine in the Darlington area operated by the College of Technology.

Communities interested in finding out more should call (01325) 503022.