AN elderly computer whizz from Darwen is hoping for £3,000 to save a computer class aimed at the over 50s.

Gloria Simpson, 74, of Blackamoor, is chairman of Darwen Over-50s Computer Club which has been running for three years -- but without extra funding she said the group could struggle to continue.

The club has applied for £3,000 from Blackburn with Darwen Council's Neighbourhood Renewal community chest fund.

If the bid is successful, organisers could buy four new computers and secure the future of the club, which meets at Darwen Resource Centre.

The bid has been backed by local councillor Roy Davies who said that a knowledge of computers was important for the elderly.

He added: "It is important to keep these groups going and encourage more people to join.

"Once you've joined it becomes a bug and you want to keep going to find out more.

"The club also gets older people out of the house.

But in a few years' time on-line shopping could be the only way we can shop and if you are an invalid or elderly it is good to know this information and be able to find out what is available to you."

The classes began with funding from the government's Lifelong Learning scheme, which has since come to an end, and members are hoping alternative funding will be available.

Gloria could not even type when she joined the club three years ago but she is now confident enough to teach others the basic skills.

Although the club, which has 21 members, is an over 50s club, younger people attend too.

Gloria said: "The aim is to help people in the community who may be afraid of computers, especially elderly people.

"Some retired people sit at home and think there is nothing else for them to do.

"Some of us are quite advanced now and would like to help others. It doesn't matter if people haven't touched a computer before.

"I was afraid at first and I couldn't type but it doesn't matter. Some of the people who have young grandchildren are actually helping them out now. We have got pretty slick."

The club, which has the use of four computers, meets on Thursday afternoons but other classes could be arranged to fit around members schedules.

Anyone wanting further information can contact Gloria on 01254 679338.