A FREE on-line service is helping workers on Tyneside develop their skills by alerting them to courses they can take.

The Alerting Service website, which was created by Tyneside Training and Enterprise Council and Northumbria University with European funding, has a list of 13,000 learning opportunities.

It aims to help firms encourage their workers to develop their careers by acquiring skills and knowledge.

Staff who register receive regular e-mail alerts to courses that might interest them.

North Tyneside company Victor, which makes hazard area light equipment, has signed up to the service.

Training and quality manager Colin Arkley said: "Having the Alerting Service available means that our staff can find out about training opportunities quickly.

"Once a member of staff's training needs have been identified, we can use the service to find opportunities where they can get the exact training they need. Some staff use the service to find out about courses they can take outside of work."

Alerting Service coordinator Colin Waters said: "Ensuring that your staff are well trained is vital to any business.

"If they are able to access information on the latest training to develop their skills they can play a much wider role in your business."

For more details, contact Mr Waters on 0191-492 6916 or e-mail colin.watersion MT"