A CHARITY is appealing for older computer buffs to help East Durham pensioners log on to the Internet.

A project that will teach people aged 50 and over how to surf is being launched at the libraries in Easington Colliery, Blackhall and Thornley libraries.

The scheme is being run by Age Concern Durham County and Durham County Council's arts, libraries and museums department, in response to an increased demand from older people.

The charity, which gets a lot of inquiries from people wanting to learn about the Internet, is looking for people who know their way around a computer and can guide novices in using the Internet.

Every library in the county provides free computer access and the charity and county council are hoping to make sure that older people have the same opportunities as younger users.

Age Concern Durham County's information officer Emma Howitt said: "We are looking for volunteers who have some basic computer knowledge and would be willing to share their skills and knowledge with others.

"We are especially looking for volunteers who are over 50 themselves, as they can give another older person that extra bit of confidence that they can do it too."

Anyone wanting more information about the project can contact Emma Howitt at the charity's headquarters, in Atherton Street, Durham, on 0191-386 3856