Volunteers are needed to ensure that popular Gadget Buster sessions can continue to run in Midsomer Norton.

Age UK B&NES has been running pilot iPad for Beginners sessions at the Methodist Housing Association for the last month, in association with Community Learning at Bath College.

These have proven very popular with local over-55s and Age UK B&NES wants to run more and similar sessions that also provide advice on using smartphones, laptops, other tablets and general use of the internet.

Ketyn Jepson, from Age UK B&NES, said: “The sessions have been really successful and we need volunteers to spare a couple of hours a week to help us run more.

“Technology can open a whole new world for so many older people. One man in his eighties was really thrilled to be able to log on to Google Earth to see pictures of the airfield in France where he was based during the war and to read war diaries. Other attendees have learned how to order their shopping online, book tickets for events and even open social media accounts.

“Learning some basic IT skills allows older people to keep up communication with family and friends who may be a long way away, as well as keeping up-to-date with what’s going on in their community.”

She added: “We really want to continue with sessions as soon as we can, as there is high demand, but we need two or three new volunteers, who could be available on a Tuesday morning, from 10 a.m. – 12 noon at the Methodist Housing Association in Midsomer Norton. They will need good IT knowledge and know how to use a tablet or a laptop, as well as good communication skills and of course, lots of patience.

“We’re also very keen to talk to local businesses, particularly IT firms, about possibly sponsoring sessions or loaning us some equipment.”

Anyone interested in volunteering or sponsoring the sessions is invited to contact Ketyn Jepson or Chris Hart at Age UK B&NES on: 01225 484510 or email: [email protected]

Anyone keen to attend more sessions when they are up-and-running is encouraged to call the number above to register their interest.