Simon Hart MP will attend an event on Friday, June 15 (1.30 for 2 pm), at Whitland Memorial Hall, to celebrate the success of the 'Computers, how to get started and much more...' initiative.

The occasion will also allow the hall to acknowledge the financial contribution from the Co-operative Membership Community Fund and support from Race Online 2012.

The idea for the classes came about when Sue Adams heard about Race Online 2012, which is designed to inspire, encourage and support millions more people to go online through partnership with government, industry, charities and individuals.

When approached by Sue Adams, the Whitland Memorial Hall decided to support this initiative by providing a base for computer and internet courses for beginners and help people of all ages take their first steps. The hall already had broadband connection available, one laptop and a projector and screen, valuable tools in the delivery of lessons to a group.

With financial support from the Co-operative Membership Community Fund towards the purchase of some more laptops, beginners are able to use a computer for free until they are confident enough to purchase their own.

Since September 2011, under the guidance of Diane Evans, there have been weekly sessions open to anyone who might need help, from 'how to turn on your computer' to 'want to learn a bit more'. In the long run, as the community becomes more internet knowledgeable, if suitable, the focus could change from teaching to a more 'internet café' environment.

Everyone who has attended classes since their start in September 2011 is invited to this event and it is also a good opportunity for anyone interested in learning about how to use a computer and go online to pop in and have a chat with past and present users to ask if and how they benefited from the experience.