OLDER people in York were able to learn valuable skills as part of an international initiative held in a former church.

St Sampson’s Centre for the over 60s was visited by York city councillors, Denise Craghill and Fiona Fitzpatrick this month to show the computer skills session in action.

It was hosted as part of the United Nations initiative, International Older People’s Day, which has a different theme each year - this year’s theme being technology, as many older people struggle with technology and navigating computers.

Reverend Sue Nightingale, Chairman of the St Sampson’s Centre, said: “We have had several laptops donated for the event, and we are using these to explore the mysteries of the internet.

“Denise Craghill came and was interested to see the computer group at work with Rama Isaiah our deputy manager.

“Fiona Fitzpatrick came and chatted to some of our customers, and she was delighted that it is a community hub for older people - one chap she met comes each week whilst his wife goes shopping and then they meet up for lunch.”

In addition to the computer skills event, the centre has also launched a monthly craft group.