EASTLEIGH residents can now surf the internet for free.

Residents in and around the Velmore Estate have access to the internet and a printer which have been launched at Velmore Community Centre in Falkland Road.

The centre is self-funded and the base for several activities in the area including a café, a lunch club, a "knit and natter" group, as well as music and fitness classes.

Access is thanks to a donation of £950 from the Co-operative Food store in Falkland Court.

Store manager, Nicki Warren said: "It is great to have a community centre like this right in the heart of our estate. It is a place where all generations can meet and prevent isolation.

"So when we heard about their idea for free internet access for the community, we were delighted to support it.

"A lot of us take the internet for granted so to be without it has become a big barrier which we hope this will break down. Even if it helps just a handful of people, it will have been worth it."

The new access was launched at the centre on Tuesday.

Administrator at Velmore Community Centre Sue Molson said: "We always have loads of activities going on here but a lot of people still don't know about us. Historically it was just a church but the community centre was later built around it and our doors are open to everyone.

"Sadly we are in a financially poor area where there has been a lot of crime in the past but Velmore has a great community spirit. It was our local housing officer who identified a need for access to the internet as well as some technical advice.

"The computer is based in the café and near our office so we will normally be on hand to help people if they need it. We can help with CV templates or job applications. There is also a connected printer."

The community centre donation was made by Southern Co-op through its community engagement programme "Love Your Neighbourhood".

It is an initiative addresses which aims to promote greener, healthier, safer, and more inclusive neighbourhoods.