A WIDE range of free learning opportunities is now on offer as part of the Bite Size Intros scheme which runs until June 21.

This week at Darlington College in Catterick you can learn to set up an e-mail account and find out about video conferencing. At Northallerton College there is an introduction to Microsoft Powerpoint on June 10 followed by an Introduction to Web Pub*ishing on June 19.

You can try British sign language at Thirsk Community Education Centre next Tuesday or make a bead amulet purse tomorrow at York St John College Bedale. Next month at Thirsk you can learn how to set up a voluntary organisation on June 17 or Stretch your Mind at Bedale on June 19.

At the Middleham Key Centre on June 5 there is an Introduction to Map Reading for The Lost and Everyday First Aid on June 13.

There are lots more courses available, running both during the day and in the evening.

Kevin Marrow from the Learning and Skills Council North Yorkshire, which is co-ordinating the campaign said: "Whatever you want to learn, there is a very high chance that you can do a free hour's Intro on it. We are delighted at the support from local organisations to make this happen. This is a real opportunity to try out what you've always wanted to do."

Everyone attending a Bite Size Intro will receive a certificate and it is hoped that many will be encouraged to go on to do more. Last year, 70,000 adults in England and Wales took part in a Bite Size Intro and four out of ten found this the inspiration to go on and learn more afterwards.

To book your place on an Intro or find out more about what is on, call Freephone 08080 200 500 or visit www.bitesizeintros.info.