St Albans D-Day veteran says age is no barrier to computer training
Jim Crotty, 92, has already signed up to an Internet and Email course - Credit: Archant
Taking advice from family and friends, a 92-year-old D-Day soldier has decided to brush up on his computer skills with help from a charity.
Jim Crotty, who lives in St Albans, signed up to a beginner’s computer course through the local charity Computer Friendly, which offers advice to people who want to keep up with the pace of technology.
His first course consisted of five, two hour, sessions learning how to use the cursor, change font colours, and write simple words. By the end of his course he managed to type a letter and create a list of addresses, gaining a certificate for his achievements.
Jim started attending lessons after his friends and children urged him to become more tech-savvy, he said: “I thought I ought to be doing it, because I used to say to myself if I live another 10 years, which I most certainly will not, you won’t be able to live without a computer.
“I found them so helpful and understanding, the patience those instructors have is absolutely incredible.
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“I can’t walk away from it sometimes, it’s very addictive.”
Jim hopes to expand his computer knowledge by taking part in an Internet and email course based in the St Albans Telephone Exchange in Liverpool Road, but believes he may struggle to attend, he continued: “The trouble is the location of it, it’s the most difficult place to get to and there is no parking there.
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“I’ve applied for a blue badge, I may not be able to get the badge which will make it even more difficult to do the next course, but I am registered for it.”
Despite his age, Jim does plenty in his spare time. He previously served in the army for six years, and was a soldier during the D-Day invasions. As well as this, he is a huge Arsenal fan and still holds a season ticket. His busy schedule means he will not be able to take part in all of the courses, he said:
“I won’t have time to learn it all, I am a busy chap and I’m out everyday.
“I’m a member of the Conservative Club and I meet old comrades over at the British Legion.”
For more information about Computer Friendly, click here.
