OLDER people will be given a taste of new technology during an event explaining the range of services available to them.

The annual Showcase of Services for Older People, the fourth event of its type, will be held at Kidderminster Town Hall next Thursday.

State-of-the-art technology will be a key theme this year, with a bank of laptop computers in the Corn Exchange at the Town Hall, with experts from Kidderminster College and the town's library advising people how to use them.

An Age Concern Computer Bus will be outside the venue, while Currys representatives will talk about digital television and set-top boxes. Information about how to get best use out of mobile phones will also be available.

Pat Simmonds, chief officer of Age Concern Wyre Forest, said: "Many of us are overwhelmed by all the new technology available and shy away from it. Actually, though, computers today are very easy to use.

"Once you get over the first hurdle and have a go, you will find a whole new world opens up - keeping in touch with friends and family by e-mail, ordering shopping and gifts online, accessing health information.

"This is a chance to take the first step with the help of an expert."

More than 30 statutory and voluntary organisations will exhibit their services in the Music Room at the Town Hall.

Standholders will include Age Concern Wyre Forest, nurse advisers and therapists, pensions services, fire and rescue and community police. The showcase event, which is free, runs from 10am until 3pm.