A RESIDENT of the Seychelles was one of the first people to log on to a website dedicated to Bishop Auckland town centre.

It was launched by the Bishop Auckland Town Centre Forum, a voluntary partnership of public, private and voluntary sector organisations which aims to improve the town centre as the first choice destination for people throughout South Durham.

The website, at www.bishopaucklandtown.orgaims to promote the town centre to an international audience.

It is hoped the site will raise the profile of the town centre and make a wider audience aware of the services and attractions of the market town.

The website has received aid from the Barclay's Rural Regeneration Fund, set up to help communities overcome the effects of the foot-and-mouth disease.

Bishop Auckland town centre manager Ken Wilson said: "The website for the town centre will be a useful tool to promote Bishop Auckland regionally, nationally and even internationally."