New-age software will make it easier to get Bradford's long-term unemployed back to work, it was claimed today.

The city's pioneering Call Centre Training Unit has taken delivery of a £40,000 PC package that aims to provide "quick-fix" computer training even to people with no keyboard experience.

The Council-run unit has been given the software by Hampshire-based technology supplier ISV Group.

It is designed to increase the number of people passing through the unit, which has placed more than 1,000 people in call centre jobs since it was set up six years ago.

The new software package allows trainees to try their hand at complex real-world software in a risk-free simulation. It eliminates the need for a teacher to explain its use.

ISV managing director Laurie Dobson said: "If the trainees used real software they could do all sorts of damage. This is just pretend.

"It's 'show and do' training. The software literally talks the trainees through all the procedures.

"We decided to give it to the Bradford unit free because its success creates other business opportunities for us."

Forthcoming add-ons to the software will allow training films starring comedians John Cleese and Dawn French to be "video-cast" direct to trainees' desktops, Mr Dobson said.

Bradford's training unit was created to try to build a workforce for the region's burgeoning call centre industry.

Next month it will stage an open day to attract prospective candidates and employers.

Training officer Susan Robinson said: "People looking for work often have no idea what a call centre is, and can be ill-prepared for jobs in that sector.

"This software gives candidates with the skills necessary to succeed in a call centre environment.

"Our training also gives them an insight into how call centres are embracing new technology, the web and e-mail for improved customer contact."

The open day will be on Wednesday, June 11 at the training centre office in Neal Street, Bradford. For further details, call 012174 752596.