A small charity in Kensal Green has received funding to offer free computer classes to pensioners.

Elders Voice is extending its HOP-IT! (Helping Older People with IT) service for one year from January with weekly sessions at its Mortimer Road base.

Participants will learn skills to enable them to send emails, browse the internet and create documents.

Elders Voice recently discovered older people are often gifted with computers, iPads and smartphones by their relatives, but don’t have the confidence to use them.

Laptops will be provided but participants are welcome to bring their own devices if they prefer.

Wahid Parvanta, a volunteer, said: “I am 87 years old and a well-educated person but I rely on a notebook and pen.

“I have been trying to use a smartphone and PC for a few years which is great but when they don’t work, that’s the end of the world for me.

“This project will help older people stay up-to-date up with communication technology, so that they can show off to their families and most importantly their grandchildren.

“I congratulate Elders Voice for helping people in need and for setting up all sorts of activities at their centre.”

HOP-IT! will be led by Marina Gustov, the charity’s Zumba Gold instructor who also has extensive experience with computers.

She said: “If an older person struggles with mobility, learning how to order their supermarket shop online and have it delivered to their door, could save them a weekly battle with heavy shopping bags.”

The classes will take place on Wednesdays at 1pm from January 2.