TWO Rivers Housing has been helping a group of tenants to connect with the digital world.

The initiative aims to help them build friendships, shop around for cheaper prices and combat the potential isolation of living in a rural community.

Ten tenants of Two Rivers Housing are being given a tablet, broadband connection and training for a year, introducing them to the internet and giving them fresh skills and opportunities.

Joyce Lilley of Mitcheldean says: “I’ve wanted to do this for some time now and I just needed a push to get started. Already I’ve learned how to use a search engine and I’ve been looking for a crochet pattern to make a blanket for my new great-grandchild. I’ve also been able to watch a video of my grandson bungee jumping in New Zealand!”

Peter Skidmore of Yorkley was also pleased when Two Rivers invited him to join the project. He says: “I’ll use the tablet to research cars, look up recipes, book holidays and renew my car tax. I’ve also found out I can use Skype to contact my sister in Australia, who who I haven’t seen since 1970.”