A STATE-OF-THE-ART learning centre is set to give people in Droitwich the chance to improve their skills and help them return to work.

They can look forward to improved prospects and a brighter future thanks to the new free service. The Droitwich Community Learning Centre opened its doors to the public on Tuesday at its base in the town's High Street.

The service is at the town's Community Contact Centre. It offers a range of learning opportunities and the chance to gain recognised qualifications.

It is hoped that the service, which has been set up by Worcester YMCA, will prove popular after a similar scheme left Droitwich library a few years ago. Users will be able to gain computer, business, numeracy and literacy skills, as well as being given help and advice about finding the right job.

Most of the courses will be free of charge, but may depend on individual circumstances.

Centre manager Rachel Coss said: "There will be a focus on getting people back to work and giving them much-needed skills.

"We decided to open the centre after people approached us about how much a centre like this would benefit the people of the town.

"We will also run a job club, which will mean people can come and get help writing a CV and applying for jobs. A number of life courses will see people gain a National Test Qualification with Learn Direct," said Rachel.

Courses are flexible, with learners able to work through them at a time and pace that suits the individual.

The scheme is also aimed at people who just want to learn a new skill, or perhaps e-mail family and friends.

The opening of the Droitwich Community Learning Centre follows the success of other centres in Worcester, Redditch and Evesham.

Mel Smith, community development officer for Worcester YMCA, said: "Our other centres are popular with the communities they serve and we are looking forward to giving the same service to the people of Droitwich and the surrounding areas."

Anyone interested in finding out more can visit from 9.30am to 4pm or call 01905 779344.