THE borough is set to boost its digital skills with a series of tech-focused events and workshops.

The initiative forms part of Digitober, a Greater Manchester-wide campaign aimed at increasing residents' confidence with technology.

Throughout October, the council will host workshops across the borough, promoting projects like TechMates.

An emphasis on improving digital literacy is central to the council's Progress with Unity approach.

Councillor Nazia Rehman, cabinet member for resources, finance and transformation, said: "We’re proud to be joining with the other local authorities in Greater Manchester to present Digitober.

"As we transform the way we work as a council, it is increasingly important our residents have at least a basic level of digital skills and confidence to enable them to access the services and support available."

The tech festival will centre around three free, family-friendly Tech Time On Tour events in Golborne, Shevington, and Leigh libraries.

These will feature retro gaming, a virtual reality experience zone, and a coding club.

At the Leigh Library event, Tech Time To Get Digital, beginners can put their tech questions to council-trained TechMate volunteers.

TechMates is a digital mentor service where residents with a good basic understanding of tech help others learn how to use digital technologies such as smartphones, tablets, computers or laptops.

The Leigh Library session will also include a digital arts workshop for children and families.

Staff from the council’s digital services team will be on hand at the Leigh event to explain how to access some important council services digitally.

They’ll be joined by staff from other organisations, including Wigan Adult Learning, for anyone wishing to develop their digital skills further, and charities, including The Carers Centre and Henshaws (supporting people with sight loss) for those who may face extra barriers but may also gain extra benefits from accessing the digital world.

Councillor Rehman added: "These events are open to everyone and especially those who might not have had a go at anything digital before and may be feeling a little scared or intimidated by the digital world.

"Our teams and volunteers are so friendly and reassuring, they will quickly put you at your ease."