People aged over 50 in Coventry are being shown the power of the internet this week, with a little help from CWN.

Two computers with internet connections have been loaned to the Older People’s Information Network in a bid to encourage more silver surfers to log on.

Throughout the week the Older People’s Information Network and the PeopleLink Community Information database are being demonstrated by Coventry’s library service.

Computers lent by CWN Community for the week are on show at Earlsdon Library and at Methodist Central Hall. There are also demonstrations at Willenhall Library.

Chris Studman, managing director of CWN Community, said:

“We were happy to step in to help the Library Service make sure there were enough computers available for this project.

“A lot of older people seem to think that the internet lies exclusively in the province of younger people – but this is not true.

“We find we are constantly being contacted by people of all ages from all over the world. Many older people have got the internet to keep in touch with relatives abroad, and then find how useful a tool it is.

“By showing them something of direct relevance, such as OPIN, the Library Service is providing a gateway to new technology for thousands of people in this city.”

Cllr George Duggins, cabinet member (Education and Library Services), said:

“I urge older citizens of Coventry to take advantage of these opportunities to find out how they can use the internet for their own leisure and information needs.”

Cultural events have also been arranged as part of the 50+ Festival, with Asian music and John Spencer and the Nostalgics performing in the city centre.

The computer in Methodist Central Hall will be there between 10am and 3.30pm today and tomorrow.