A TECHNOLOGY centre, providing free Internet access for the community, has been launched.

Health Secretary and Darlington MP Alan Milburn officially opened the UK Online centre on the Red Hall estate.

An array of learning packages are provided, helping beginners build computer skills with the aid of expert staff.

The Red Hall facility is one of ten drop-in centres planned for the town after a successful bid for £500,000 of National Lottery money was made by the Darlington Partnership, Darlington College of Technology and Darlington Borough council.

Three centres have already been opened - at Willow Road, Skerne Park and Darlington Memorial Hospital.

A further six are to be opened next year.

Rumana Ramzan, from the Darlington Partnership, said: "Technology opens up so many doors for all age groups. Developing technology skills is essential, not just for work but the everyday practical things, too.

"It is a fabulous opportunity for the community at Red Hall to have such a local and easily accessible facility."