The Challenge Chester programme was launched at a cream tea organised by Chester Learning at the Town Hall by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, Cllr Jim Latham and his wife Hilary.

The project is aimed at all organisations in the district, whether private, public, voluntary or community.

Chester Learning says poor English and maths skills cost a typical organisation employing 50 people £165,000 a year through issues such as mistakes and lost time.

In Chester district, 75 per cent of people have not achieved level 2 numeracy – equivalent to a GCSE A* to C and 50 per cent are below level 2 literacy.

"Employers know maths and English skills are crucial to the work-place to develop their business and to provide the best service possible," it says.

"Employees know that they need to develop these skills to get on at work."

The initiative believes that individuals, businesses and organisations sometimes do not know how to go about brushing up these essential skills.

To overcome this, Challenge Chester is offering simple and straightforward advice.

A detailed guide gives information about all the Skills for Life learning providers in the district.

It also includes a "health check", which businesses can offer their employees to determine the level of training they may require.

The free training can easily be fitted in around work patterns with as little disruption as possible.

Anyone wishing to obtain further information about Challenge Chester should phone Jacqui Latham on 01244 402620 or email jacquilatham@chester.gov.uk