A leading college has landed a windfall of more than a quarter of a million pounds.

The development and enterprise unit at Eastbourne College of Arts and Technology has secured £280,627 from the European Social Fund.

College bosses will now set up three projects designed to improve the prospects of socially disadvantaged people.

One will help young people develop IT and driving skills and offer them creative and recreational activities.

The second project, called East Sussex Parents in Retraining and IT, will offer workshops to help young mothers who cannot attend college because of family commitments. Childcare will be available at no cost.

The third project offers free advice, guidance and IT training for unemployed adults.

Manager Margaret Shephard said: "The staff and partners worked very hard on these bids, which will benefit young people and adults in Eastbourne and across East Sussex.

"The three projects will help to meet the Government's agenda for social inclusion and lifelong learning."

All three projects will run until June 2002. Contact the college on 01323 644711 for more details.