ANYONE who believes the world of new technology is the preserve of the young hasn't met Bill Callen and his family.

The 84-year-old uses computers regularly to e-mail his brother, Harold, 86, who lives in Canada, and sister, Margaret, 82, in Belfast.

The retired RAF radio operator has completed one computer course at Darlington College at Catterick and recently embarked on another.

"My mam lived until she was 105, so I should be here at college in 20 years' time still learning," said Mr Callen.

Now his efforts and unbridled enthusiasm for student life have earned him an accolade at Darlington College's annual awards.

On Monday night, he will be presented with the Commitment to Lifelong Learning Award at a ceremony at Darlington Civic Theatre.

"It all started when my son, Geoffrey, signed up at the college for a computer course and really enjoyed it," he said.

"I thought I would give it a go. I really enjoy it and use the clipart to make funny pictures, which I email to my relatives."

Mr Callen doesn't own his own computer, so he uses those at Darlington College at Catterick.

"I love going into college. The tutors are first-class. I couldn't have learnt what I have without them and it is such a nice environment in which to learn."

Support worker Carole Oliphant said: "It is a pleasure to work with someone so enthusiastic. He broke his elbow recently and was so keen that he came in with his arm in plaster and operated the computer with one hand."

Mr Callen's prize will be one of nearly 200 handed out at the awards ceremony.