Adam Pevie of Bondgate IT refurbishes one of the computers due to be donated A NORTH-EAST technology firm is appealing to others to donate refurbished laptops to Tees Valley schools and support students struggling with home learning. Garry Brown, managing director of the Darlington firm Bongate IT, is a trustee of the Ad Astra Academy Trust and stresses the importance of education in unlocking skills and shaping successful futures. But according to analysis by the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, based on data from Ofcom and the ONS, there are 55,000 families in the region without access to an internet device. Bondgate IT is refurbishing and donating its surplus laptops to primary school pupils as well as refurbishing devices donated by others.