PUB regulars in North Yorkshire can surf the internet while enjoying their pint.

Some 15 pubs have signed up for the Locals Online project, an innovative scheme to develop a network of rural learning centres across the county.

North Yorkshire is the first county in the country to develop the project and the Fox and Hounds on Bullamoor Road, Northallerton, is one of the first pubs to go on-line.

Licensee David Hawksworth said: "It's such an excellent facility for a rural business. Customers find the computers very useful and so simple to use."

The aim of the scheme, backed by a Government grant of £300,000, is to encourage people to learn about the internet while at the same time promoting the Pub is the Hub campaign for local communities.

County councillor Chris Metcalfe said: "Pubs have long been established at the heart of rural communities and are an important focal point for social interaction.

"Often where there is no village hall, the pub may provide the only public meeting place. They have traditionally been involved in sports and recreation, playing host to a variety of activities.

"It's encouraging to see that so many are now branching out into the world of computers."

Pubs involved include the Blue Bell, Ingleby Cross, near Northallerton; the New Inn, Easingwold; the Fox and Hounds, Langthorpe, Boroughbridge; the Crown Inn, Grewelthorpe, Ripon; Wheatsheaf Inn, Carperby; the Punch Bowl, Low Row, Reeth; School House Inn, Low Marishes, Malton; Station Tavern, Grosmont; the Royal Oak, Hunmanby; and the Blacksmiths Arms, Cloughton.