A SCHEME to bring information technology to north-west Durham is launched next week.

Durham County Council is building 16 community information points in Derwentside.

Based in libraries, community centres, schools and village halls, they will offer free Internet access.

The first opens in Leadgate Community Centre next Friday. Other sites include four in Stanley and Consett.

The scheme is a partnership between Durham County Council and Derwentside District Council, part funded with a grant from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund.

For further details, call Gail Pilkington on 0191-383 4224.