Silver surfers enjoy Shropshire Star app

Two great-grandparents from Newport have proved they are bang up to date with technology by subscribing to the Shropshire Star's new iPad app.

Retired RAF transport fitter Peter Allen, 82, and wife Bette, 79, have signed up to get the latest digital newspaper version of the Star, which they read every night on their matching iPads.

The 'silver surfer' couple, who have four daughters, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren, say the new app has been 'a godsend'.

Mr Allen said: "It is marvellous, just like having a proper paper in your hand. I have been hooked on it. I used to buy the Star every day from a shop but I have trouble getting about now and it was not practical to have one delivered as we spend a lot of time away."

The app's page turning technology allows readers to view the newspaper as it appears on the printed page but with the benefits of using a handheld device.

Mr Allen is particularly pleased with the zoom function,He added:"I've always had an interest in computers and a lot of older people have got iPads.

"Bette and I like to use them to keep in contact with family, play games and go online to find out information.I would recommend the app to everyone. To me, it is a godsend.

The app, which is available to iPhone and iPad users via the App Store, comes with one week's free access to Shropshire and Mid Wales' favourite regional paper.

Once the free trial is up, subscribing to costs £1.49 per week or £3.99 per month. To find out more, see www.shropshirestar.com/app