TAVISTOCK Computers and Training Ltd will be closing its doors tomorrow (Friday) after three years of supporting the community with their computers, training and repairs.

The company has been trading from a shop in the Pannier Market surround. Although the little shop has met the company's immediate needs for a retail premises and a place people can visit for free advice, low cost tuition and computer repairs, owner Janet Mashford said that part of market got very few passersby or visitor footfall and therefore the company was not able to raise enough funds through the retail shop front.

She said: 'Taking all this into consideration, we need a larger shop with space for an office at the rear. Although several shops have stood empty, we have not been able to negotiate with the town council's agent an affordable rent.'

Janet, who has staffed the shop since it started, is now unable to carry on alone. She works voluntarily and has loved meeting and helping people.

'We have outgrown the space and it has become unworkable. If we are to continue we need a larger shop so that more staff and volunteers can be involved. The Times has supported us throughout the three years and has been an invaluable aid to the project, and many people from Tavistock, Plymouth, Callington, Okehampton and everywhere in between have donated equipment that we have recycled, providing a course of low-cost computers and the spares to keep existing computers going for longer.'

Until the company finds a new shop, it will continue with a mobile service. People can still get help, as Janet will do visits. Free help with software problems, getting started and broadband advice is available by contacting Janet on 01822 618865 — if the answer phone is on, leave a number and someone will return the call. People can also email [email protected]">[email protected] or text or call 07779349956.