RESIDENTS in Hartlepool are to benefit from almost £750,000 as part of a fund set up by the Government to improve computing facilities.

Eight community organisations teamed up with Hartlepool Borough Council to submit the bid for cash to the New Opportunities Fund.

The money will be spent over the next three years and will result in a range of computing facilities provided at community venues throughout the town.

Computer suites will be created at West View Community Centre and Belle Vue Community Sports and Youth Centre.

Maggie Heaps, the council's adult education coordinator, helped organise the bid.

She said: "This is a true partnership between the local authority and several community organisations in Hartlepool.

"A lot of work went in to the bid and this announcement represents excellent news for the town.

"This is a project which will bring about much improved computing facilities for people in Hartlepool aimed at those over the age of 16."

There will be ten computer learning centres located throughout the town, offering short sessions as well as intense programmes for people of all abilities.

The funding will also enable professional tutors to be engaged to offer advice and help.