WOMEN in the Stockton area are being offered the chance to gain new work skills.

Stockton Borough Council is offering one-day-a-week courses in subjects including information technology, English, social studies and job search skills.

Childcare is provided for mothers wanting to take part.

The council is holding information sessions for women to find out about the latest opportunities on offer through the New Start for Women scheme.

Coffee and a free creche will be on offer at the free sessions, which take place at 14 venues during the week, starting next Monday.

More than 850 women have joined the courses since New Start was launched in 1992.

Jan Harbottle, from Roseworth, joined a course after being made redundant.

She said: "I'd got into a rut and was too scared to do anything. I didn't dare go for an interview, so I wouldn't apply for anything.

"My sister had seen an advert and asked me if I'd go with her. I did, and it's the best move I ever made."