COMEDIAN and TV star Frank Skinner is helping to launch a new learning initiative in Worcester.

The popular Black Country funnyman will be doing a whistle-stop tour of six West Midlands learning centres on Thursday, including practising pottery arts and crafts in the Faithful City.

The visit marks a new Learning and Skills Council (LSC) scheme, called Bite Size Intros, designed to get more people back into the habit of learning.

"Bite Size is a brilliant idea because lots of people have the urge to learn new skills or hobbies but are put off by the thought of stepping back into a classroom environment," said Mr Skinner.

"The scheme makes those first steps much easier because it's saying 'come in and have a go' with no charge or commitment.

"I got expelled from school and eventually summoned up the courage to have another go by attending evening classes. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. There's something really wrong with wasted potential. Bite Size just might be the answer."

Worcester's LSC, in Midland Road, is working alongside a range of learning centres to offer courses including salsa dancing, art, cooking, languages, sport and computing.

Courses are offered in locations such as town halls, leisure centres or even pubs, to offer a fun learning environment removed from traditional educational establishments.

Course details can be seen at www.bitesizeintros.

info, or are available between 8am and 10pm from 08001 694841.