Women are flocking to college to learn how to put up shelves and tile bathrooms.

Tutors at Crawley College expected the DIY Academy classes, which include tips on drilling and carpentry, to be largely a male domain.

But most places for the lessons, which cost £45 a day, have been filled by women.

Tutor Bob Simpkin said: "The women seem to be taking over. I think a lot of interest has been sparked by TV programmes like Changing Rooms.

"The shows make DIY look so simple. Many people are inspired to improve their homes, only to find it's not as easy as it looks or that jobs take longer than they thought. It's easy to feel daunted. The key is to learn the skills."

Mr Simpkin said home makeover programmes also failed to pay enough attention to safety.

The courses at Crawley focus on safety, especially when using power tools or other potentially dangerous equipment.

Mr Simpkin said: "People usually have little understanding of the safety issues. DIY injuries are becoming a problem."

Mr Simpkin knows what he is talking about. He lost a little finger while cutting wood five years ago.

People of all abilities can join the courses, which run from 9.30am to 4pm on Saturdays.

The first class, At Home With Tiling, is on March 15. Call 08458 500017 or visit www.diyacademy.co.uk