A PROJECT set up to co-ordinate learning and training services for adults has started operating in Ferryhill.

Several groups offer a variety of courses across Sedgefield borough, each working to attract students.

But a new service, called the Sedgefield Learning Borough Project, works independently and can sift the courses on offer to recommend the best ones for individuals.

Lynn Rocks, the project's centre supervisor in Ferryhill, works from the Ladder Centre, in Coniston Road.

As well as Ferryhill, her area of responsibility covers Chilton, West Cornforth, the Trimdon villages, Fishburn and Sedgefield.

She has been visiting community groups to explain the service and hopes to reach as many people as possible.

She said: "The service has been set up to get people access to training and learning in their own communities.

"I want to get the message across to people in Ferryhill and the surrounding area that I will be out and about talking to them."

The project works in partnership with JobCentres, learning providers, the Learning and Skills Council, colleges, local authorities and other service providers, to ensure it can offer the best possible advice.

Mrs Rocks said: "People do not know that there is training and career opportunities out there. Most people do not even know they exist.

"It is trying to bring courses to people that fit in with their needs and trying to get them back into learning.

"If there are any community groups, residents' associations or anybody who wants to see me, I will be more than happy to have a chat."

The Ferryhill service complements centres operating in Newton Aycliffe, Shildon and Spennymoor.

Project co-ordinator Janet Mohamad said: "It is only in its infancy, but it is quite nice to see that we have already had some results."

For more information call Maggie or Lynn, in Ferryhill, on (01740) 657493; Jane or Joanne, at the Newton Aycliffe Learning Shop, on (01325) 311177; Nigel or Sue, at Sunnydale Leisure Centre, Shildon, on (01388) 778977; or Elaine or Louise at the Spennymoor Learning Shop, on (01388) 816888.