Inner city area gets new web cafe

It is hoped the internet cafe will provide training opportunities

One of the most deprived areas of Manchester is to get its first internet cafe.

The Sheung Lok Forever Happy web cafe in the Grosvenor Centre will provide computer training, a jobsearch facility and an after-school homework club.

It is the result of work between the University of Manchester, the city council and other local agencies.

The cafe is to open on 6 March and the council says it will improve services for the whole community.

Lord Mayor of Manchester Cllr David Sandford said: "It's a wonderful example of committed residents and public spirited partners coming together to improve services for the whole community."

Steve Grant, of the University of Manchester, said: "I hope the cafe will be seen as a valuable resource that will improve employment and training opportunities."

The Ardwick area is one of the most deprived areas of Manchester, with high levels of unemployment and low levels of academic acheivement.

The cafe will be officially opened by the Lord Mayor at 4pm next Tuesday and will be celebrated with a Chinese banquet and a display of ceremonial dragons and fireworks.