EUROPEAN PRAISE FOR LOOE COMPUTER CENTRE

The Looe Community Computer and Business Centre was recently hailed as a shining example of a community project in action with Objective One funding working at a very local level.

European Commission representatives Carmen Gonzalez Fernandez, a desk officer within the regional policy directorate overseeing the Objective One Programme in Cornwall and Denis Kennedy, a member of the Programme Monitoring Committee with responsibility for employment, social affairs and equal opportunities, payed a flying visit from Brussels to see the first community project in Cornwall to be supported by Objective One funding that is up and running.

Beryl Tregear, who was instrumental in successfully applying for the grants said, "It took over 18 months to get the Centre up and running, with many set backs along the way. Through the determination of our local team and with the help of the local IAP office, Looe now has a community resource that was definitely worth all the effort.”

The visitors from Brussels were accompanied by Garry Elderbrand and Mark Billing from Government Office South West who were equally impressed by the commitment of Trust members and the team of volunteers who help run the Centre.

Activities provided at the Centre are overseen by manager Martin Clarke, with strategic planning undertaken by a steering group drawn from members of the Development Trust, supported by specialist expertise.

Sessions and courses offered include: basic IT skills training, designed to introduce the novice to the world of computing and the internet. Sessions are available for those people who are already computer literate but wish to develop their skills and pursue more formalised training, such as the BBC Webwise course and the European computer driving licence. The Centre is also open to the casual caller who requires internet access or e-mail facilities.

The Centre, located in the heart of east Looe, is also the office of Looe, Polperro and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, with Chamber members receiving discounts on courses and training sessions offered, including web site design, marketing, health and safety accreditation, as well as acting as a signposting service for business support and advice.

The Centre is a UK On-line Centre and has been funded by: European Regional Development Fund through Objective One, New Opportunities Fund (Lottery), Regional Development Agency, DfES, Caradon District Council, Cornwall Enterprise, Looe Town Council, East Looe Town Trust and West Looe Town Trust.

Opening hours are Monday - Thursday 10am - 4.00pm and Wednesday evenings 7.00pm - 9.00pm.

For details on services offered and to book your place contact Martin Clark, Centre Manager on 01503 265947.