A COMPUTER project seen as a flagship within the Prison Service is to be opened at Wymott Jail on Friday, September 3.

Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle will officially launch the Prisoners' ICT Academy unit, a scheme designed to provide offenders with wide-ranging computer skills, enabling employment opportunities.

It has been developed from initial investment two years ago into a state-of-the-art computer suite.

Instructors at the prison have been trained to a high level to enable delivery of accredited training.

The intention is for prisoners to gain skills that lead to employment and help them integrate into their communities successfully, once released, in turn reducing crime.

The unit will allow for self-paced and self-directed study and lead to recognised commercial and academic qualifications in information technology.

Prisoners can access a structured resettlement programme comprising career guidance and preparation for employment.

The launch will be attended by key employers in the computer industry and senior Prison Service staff.

Debra Kershaw, Wymott's business support manager said: "We are proud to open this facility which we feel will contribute to the rehabilitation of offenders.

"The unit has 16 new Pentium computers and will vastly improve our educational resources."