ASPIRING pop stars have been given a boost with the opening of an online music centre.

Music students will have access to decks, computer mixing and recording equipment - facilities that are often too expensive for young bands and budding producers.

The centre, at Middlesbrough College, offers IT and Internet access, either free, or at reduced cost, together with help and support from a team of trained staff.

Evelyn Lodge, the UK online centre manager at Middlesbrough College, said: "We want to help people in the region to enter the digital age.

"Almost everything can be done on computers these days, from checking your bank account to booking a holiday - you can even make music. So with our new musical facilities, one day the region might have its own U2 or Coldplay."

UK online is a Department for Education and Skills initiative helping people learn about computers and the Internet. Middlesbrough College is the 21st UK online centre.

To find your nearest centre, call 0800 771234 or visit www.dfes.gov. uk/ukonlinecentres