A computer recycling centre that could bring jobs and training to Bradford is set to open in January after winning a battle for vital funding.

Manningham project Byte Back made a desperate plea through the Telegraph & Argus for funding and it has now raised the vital £9,000 which gives access to a massive £850,000 in grants.

Byte Back Bradford gives firms the chance to pass on redundant computers to the centre to refurbish and sell on to schools, charities and other voluntary organisations at a cheap price.

The operation has been set up by Save Waste and Prosper (SWAP), the waste consultant group and supported by Bradford Council.

SWAP's external relations manager Gareth Morris said: "We're delighted to get the operation up and running but we'd still like to get financial help from local companies or people.

"This project will benefit schools, charities and other groups by offering them affordable computer hardware."

New European laws dictate that all types of electronic and electrical equipment must be recycled, meaning projects like Byte Back are set to be pioneers in what is likely to be a growth industry.

The scheme will also bring jobs to the long-term unemployed via the government's New Deal programme. It will employ trainees and teach them skills in information technology, engineering production and electronic servicing. Trainees can gain NVQ and City and Guilds qualifications through work at the centre and college-day release courses.

The project will eventually employ six staff and a number of trainees.

It will get under way next month at temporary premises at the Carlisle Business Centre, Carlisle Road.

Anyone wishing to help the project should telephone (0113) 243 8777.

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