HAVE you always wanted to learn how to get online and surf the web but thought you were too old to learn?

Do you have friends and family in far-flung places who you would love to be able to email to stay in touch?

Well, new research announced this week – Age Concern Week – shows that understanding the internet remains the most sought after skill by people over the age of 60.

A new website – www.waytolearn.co.uk which has been set up for adult learners – has revealed that one in five people aged over 60 would choose learning how to become a 'silver surfer' over other modern courses.

The website has now launched a dedicated easy-to-use section during Age Concern Week to direct older people to free web courses and information which enables users to search for the different types of courses in their local area.

Ivan Lewis, minister for Skills and Vocational Education, told the Times: "Age Concern week is an excellent time for the older generation to develop the confidence to get online.

"Becoming familiar with computers means you can stay in touch with family and friends via email. You can shop or look for information like train times on the internet and develop a hobby or boost your skills. You may even be able to support your grandchildren's learning."

Residents in Hillingdon over the age of 60 can benefit from a 40 per cent discount on a range of daytime, weekend and evening courses at adult education learning centres across the borough.

Topics are wide-ranging with something of interest for everyone, from art to languages or cookery to flower arranging.

A spokesman for Hillingdon Council said: "Local people of all ages are making use of computers at Hillingdon libraries.

"Opportunities to learn internet and email skills are offered through the People’s Network, a nationally funded scheme linking libraries to the internet and aiming to get everyone online."

Under the scheme library visitors can log on to free internet access, an electronic reference library or computer software such as Microsoft office applications.

Visitors can even learn online and obtain a special qualification, the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL).

ECDL modules show step-by-step how to use IT and are available from any Hillingdon library at £12.50 each.

Visitors can also use libraries to listen to a BBC Radio programme over the internet, pick up email, book a flight abroad or simply to practice their word processing skills using an ECDL module.

Hillingdon Adult Education Service runs courses for people who have never used computers or the internet – but want to find out more.

Free places are offered this autumn on a first-come first-served basis at Uxbridge, Yiewsley and Harlington libraries in custom-built learning centres.

Alan Tuckett, chief executive of NIACE (National Institution of Adult Continuing Education), said: "The internet is becoming more important to older people as they begin to realise how much they can gain.

"Whether improving skills, finding out about support and help, contacting friends or learning about their local area – the internet opens up new possibilities and opportunities and we would encourage anyone who hasn't tried it to get on-line and give it a go."

For more about adult learning in Hillingdon call 01895 676837. To find your local www.waytolearn.co.uk centre call free on 0800 771 234