GATESHEAD residents are being offered the chance to learn a language or skill as part of a national campaign to get more people involved in education.

Gateshead Metropolitan Borough Council is organising a series of events, during next month's Adult Learners' Week, starting on May 14.

They will highlight the diversity of classes and courses that are available to residents' throughout the borough.

As 2001 is also European Year of Languages, the events have an international flavour.

They include a trip round the world at Birtley Community Centre, an English language fun day at Stoneygate Community House and an adult learning taster day at Teams Community Centre.

Councillor Ian Mearns, cabinet member for culture and learning, said: "Gateshead Council has a genuine commitment to offer the very best in education to our residents, regardless of their age of abilities."

Telephone 0191-4332773 or 0191 433 2709, for more information.