A careers and education advice centre in Sunderland has been hailed a success.

The learningplace was set up in part of the old Binns store in Fawcett Street and opened in May.

It brings together advice on work, training and education, as well as offering help on preparing CVs and training on computers and the Internet.

The centre involves the city's careers service, training and enterprise council, college, university and council.

A spokeswoman said: "It really has taken off in the city and has proved a great success.

"We have had people of all ages, including women wanting to return to work and even refugees wanting to brush up on their English.

"We have helped 800 students of all ages enrol on a whole range of full and part-time courses since we opened.''

The learningplace was opened last night by Sunderland University Chancellor Lord Puttnam, the renowned international film maker.

Lord Puttnam, who is in the city for degree ceremonies, will tomorrow unveil a plaque at the Stanfield Business Centre, Commercial Road, in the Hendon area of the city.

The £3.1m centre is aimed at fledgling and small businesses and is due to open in August.