Fawley (May 10, 2006) -- An adult literacy course has taken delivery of a brand new laptop computer to help students improve basic reading, writing, speaking and listening skills.

The equipment is already in use by adults attending the Return to English class run by Totton College and was bought following a donation of £750 from Esso and ExxonMobil Chemical at Fawley.

The grant was made under a special scheme designed to recognise the efforts of ExxonMobil employees and their families who contribute their time, talent and energy to schools, charities and non-profit making organisations. The scheme not only helps local organisations, but also improves the links between ExxonMobil and the local community.

The class is tutored by Sarah Dutton who is assisted by two volunteers including the recipient of the grant Liz Knight, a quality systems administrator for ExxonMobil. It is held at the Methodist Church Hall in Dibden Purlieu on a Thursday morning.

This is just one of the groups run by the college for people of all ages and abilities who wish to improve their literacy and numeracy skills. The students are encouraged to learn in an informal, warm and friendly atmosphere and for many people, the course is not just about literacy, it is a way of boosting confidence and enabling them to go on and access employment or other training opportunities.

If anyone would like more information about joining this or a similar class they should contact Jan Bolam at the Waterside Centre of 023 8084 8169.

The ExxonMobil Volunteer Involvement Programme has so far contributed more than £120,000 to local community projects, since it was started three years ago.