NEARLY one-quarter of Bury's adult population has problems with words or numbers.

A campaign has now been launched to tackle illiteracy and innumeracy among people in the borough aged 16 to 60.

A "Skills for Success" strategy has been launched by the Government to reduce the number of adults who have difficulties with basic skills.

Latest figures released show that, in Bury North, 24.1 per cent of all adults suffer literacy problems and 24.7 per cent experience numeracy difficulties.

In Bury South, which covers the Prestwich, Whitefield and Radcliffe areas, there are 23.8 per cent with literacy problems and 24.2 per cent with numeracy difficulties.

Anyone wishing to improve their basic skills can call learndirect on 0800 100 900. More details about the "Skills for Success" campaign can be found at the Department for Education and Employment website at www.dfee.gov.uk.