ORGANISATIONS in Blackburn, Darwen and Bacup have been given internet-ready computers as part of a BT-sponsored scheme.

BT Community Connections aims to connect local groups to the web and encourage them to use technology to help improve community life.

The Blackburn winners were St Barnabas Church and Community Centre and Seaton Court, Bradda Road and Hasham Court Tenants Association. In Darwen the Night Safe Woodvale project was a winner and Bacup Family Centre has also been chosen.

The St Barnabas computer will be located in the coffee bar.

The tenants association will use the computer to help in the organisation of events and to communicate with similar groups.

Night safe will use the computer to provide IT training for homeless people, helping their job prospects.

Bacup Family Centre plans to make the computer available to children.