Broadband goes live in rural communities tomorrow after a successful campaign by residents.

BT will switch on the high-speed internet connection at exchanges in Leyburn and Aysgarth, in Wensleydale.

The move means hundreds of residents and businesses in these, and neighbouring villages, will now be able to get broadband.

"We're delighted we have now caught up with the 21st Century," said Aysgarth resident Pip Land, who helped orchestrate a campaign which collected more than 2,000 signatures of people wanting broadband.

"There is a real demand for broadband in Wensleydale - there are some people who work from home, or need it for their business, who are desperate for it.

"Some people even risked losing their jobs because they weren't connected."

Yvonne Peacock, district councillor for the Addlebrough ward, agreed.

She said: "Broadband coming to Wensleydale has been long overdue.

"It allows rural business to compete with others in larger towns and cities, and it is vital if we are not going to be left behind."

BT spokesman Paul Dorrell said broadband meant users could get a high-speed internet connection, which could remain connected all day without the need for a another line for telephone calls.

"Broadband is important for the local economy, allowing people all over the country to trade on a level playing field," he said.

"It also has uses for education and helping people enjoy their leisure time.

"Now that people have got it, we would encourage them to make the most of it."

Many towns and villages in the Dales not covered by today's switch-on are due to get broadband shortly.

The exchange at Hawes is scheduled to go live on December 8, Masham on December 15, Reeth on January 12 and Bainbridge on January 28.

However the exchange at Gunnerside, in Swaledale, is not due to get broadband until June next year.

And BT restrictions mean anyone living several miles away from their local exchange could still have difficulty connecting.

To find out if your home or business is able to get broadband, visit www.bt.com/broadband.

If you live in Wensleydale and find you are still unable to get broadband, despite your local exchange going live, call Pip Land on (01969) 663362.