A FORMER public toilet in Kirkbymoorside has proved a success since it became the town's community office.

The centre, in Crown Square, has nine computers so people can develop IT skills, a keyboard for people with dyslexia and equipment for people with arthritis.

The board that runs the centre on a not-for-profit basis, has let part of the building to Ryedale District Council, where staff can help people in the area.

The police also occupy the upstairs of the premises and centre staff have been trained to deal with motorists' documents when they need official inspection.

Board chairman Munro Donald said: "It is proving a tremendous asset to residents of all ages. There is a great deal going on at the office.

"We have helped many people create job applications and CVs, and we have now been approved as Learn Direct Centre. In many cases, the services which are available at the centre mean that local people do not have to go to Malton, Scarborough or York for them, which is expensive in time and money."

The centre has also developed a link with the Jobcentre at Scarborough and advertises job vacancies.

And because of its central location, the centre, while not an official tourist information point, provides information to tourists, especially when seeking accommodation.

Mr Donald said: "Our aim is to make the centre self-financing. It has certainly proved a great asset to Kirkbymoorside and it promises to go from strength to strength."