A NEW learning centre is to open tomorrow after more than two years in the making.

The Life centre (Learning Is For Everyone) will be unveiled in Stockton, offering the latest computer equipment to help adults get back into learning.

The 850 staff at Morrisons regional distribution centre, in Portrack Lane, will have access to the high-tech suite, which has been transformed from a former smoking room in the workers' canteen.

The centre will be able to offer both on-line and tutor-based courses for any member of staff who wishes to get back into learning, whether it be improving on skills, such as English or maths, or developing new ones.

The initiative began when Union Learning Representatives in the workplace wanted to help instill a learning culture among their colleagues.

The union-led partnership, which included the TGWU, Usdaw, the TUC and Morrisons, managed to secure funding from the Union Learning Fund and eight PCs from Durham Logistics College, which is a partner of Logistics Skills NE, bringing the project to reality.

Mick Bond, TGWU regional education and development officer, said: "It is important that companies in the North- East see Morrisons and Exel as forward-thinking organisations which are willing to invest in their people. To embrace the learning agenda is not only good for the individual, it also makes good business sense."

Martyn Warwick, Usdaw's lifelong learning project worker, said: "Over the years, the reps have made a massive commitment to drive this initiative forward, with the support of the company, and it's great to see that commitment finally rewarded."

Sue Rosborough, human resources controller at Morrisons, said: "The Learning Centre gives us a great platform to build on our previous success and will help us develop and enhance a life- long learning culture at Stockton Distribution Centre."