A computer facility for disabled people has been launched in the heart of Newcastle.

Based at the Stamp Exchange, in Westgate Road, the IT Training Centre features a range of specially-adapted equipment such as software for visually impaired people.

It was developed by the employment services section of the Shaw Project, a well-established North-East charity, and was opened on Thursday by its patron, the Honourable Matt Ridley.

The launch marked the start of five days of events at the centre.

Manager Justine Wilmore-Smith said: "With no less than 20 networked workstations alongside other hardware and teaching equipment, all operated under the guidance of experienced tutors, we will be well-placed to provide a rolling programme of activities.

"We will be providing taster sessions on information technology (IT) the Internet, graphic design and web page design, as well as opportunities to gain a range of IT qualifications to help with employment.

"Some trainees will prefer to use the centre for personal development and the cyber caf included in the scheme will provide them with the opportunity to surf the world wide web."

Funding for the centre's first three years has come from the New Opportunities Fund, the European Social Fund, the Northern Rock Foundation and the Shaw Project.

It will be open to trainees aged over 16, and training will be complemented by work experience or job placements.

Darcy Kitchin, director of Mill House Computers, which supplied the centre's equipment, said: "This centre will provide a vast range of education, training and personal development opportunities for learners."