THE chance to learn a new skill or take up a new hobby by attending a free course is being offered this month as a training authority launches its 2003 Bite Size campaign.

The scheme runs until July 5th and offers people of all ages and from all walks of life the opportunity to try a free 'taster' course.

The courses are short, running for between one and three hours.

They give participants a taste of what it would be like to pursue the topic.

There are over 2,500 courses available throughout London and no previous experience or qualification is needed to take part in any of them.

Among the more unusual courses on offer in Richmond are anger management, Portuguese for your holiday, word processing and getting a job!

The five most popular subjects to date in the area are IT, beauty therapy, art, drama, dance and music and language and literature.

Locations include Richmond upon Thames College and Richmond Adult Community College.

To take part, call the hotline free on 08000 326 300.

Vic Seddon, Executive Director of London South Learning and Skills Council, which is behind Bite Size, says: "Bite Size makes it easy for everyone to learn, regardless of their age or experience.” He continued: “Learning should be a pleasant experience and that is what the Bite Size campaign promotes.

“Simply think of something you would like to know more about and call the hotline today to register for your course.

“So go on, which one will you try?"