Age UK in Ross-on-Wye have teamed up with Herefordshire Council’s Fastershire project to help to get more people online in south Herefordshire.

The project equipped volunteers, David Sheppard and Philip Preston, to provide IT advice and support to beginners in the area.

Melissa Fresson is one of those who benefitted and credits the training with her new found confidence. “I had never even turned a computer on until a friend showed me, so these sessions have been fantastic.

The trainers, David and Philip, were wonderful and incredibly patient which was so important. I constantly use the internet now and regularly watch films and television programmes online and I do a lot of shopping. More recently I’ve even started trying to trace old school friends.”

Ali Fletcher, Age UK, Project-Coordinator, said: “The project has been a great success due to the wonderful support skills and dedication of the volunteers involved.

“Those who have benefitted have told us it has decreased their social isolation by giving them contact to others via skype or email with family members or friends who do not live close by. Other benefits have been being able to save photos of grandchildren and purchasing goods at better prices via the internet.”

Councillor Paul Rone, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “As much of the county now has access to faster broadband as a result of Herefordshire Council’s Fastershire project, it’s essential that we help ensure that everyone is able to benefit.

“This is a great example of how working in partnership with groups like Age UK can help bring about significant change to people’s lives and increase digital inclusion across the county.”See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.