AN adult learning scheme is offering dyslexic people in the region the chance to overcome their condition.

The Government-run initiative is aimed at adults who are frustrated or embarrassed by the problems they are experiencing with spelling, reading and everyday mathematics.

The scheme, Don't Get By, Get On!, can help anyone who has problems with basic English and mathematics, but staff also specialise in assessing and teaching dyslexic adults.

The Leap Adult Education Centre, in Barnard Castle, is taking part in the campaign and is encouraging people living in south west Durham to take part.

Dyslexia affects between four and ten per cent of the population, and Barnard Castle Leap co-ordinator Jenny Lee said the condition was not related to intelligence.

She said: "Many dyslexic people are highly intelligent and are extremely frustrated by the difficulties they have in spelling or reading fluently.

"The first step is always the most difficult and anyone coming to Leap or phoning for advice can be assured of professional and confidential advice. We are also looking for more people to train as tutors, so that we can meet the demand."

Leap offers free assessment and teaching in English, mathematics and computer skills to any adult.

Last year, the Barnard Castle centre helped about 600 adult learners, with the help of a team of 45 trained tutors and 75 volunteer tutors.

The campaign is the first Government-led publicity campaign to directly target the seven million adults in England with poor reading, writing and mathematics skills.

Anyone interested in becoming a tutor, or anyone who wants to discuss getting help to improve their basic skills at whatever level, can ring Jenny Lee, on (01833) 690281, or visit the centre in Galgate, Barnard Castle.

There is also a national campaign hotline on 0207-7544 3130.