A SERVICE offering technical computer support to businesses is now available in Hambleton.

First Fix was launched earlier this year by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

Firms experiencing computer difficulties can telephone engineers and if the problem cannot be solved over the phone, the nearest support engineers will be called out to the premises.

First Fix already covers Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside and Pickering, but has now been extended to other parts of Ryedale, and Hambleton.

First Fix manager Andy Carroll said: "We have already established an on-line ICT knowledge base at www.firstfix.net and a low-cost telephone support line, which is answered by Microsoft certified professionals in Yorkshire.

"A business can access these whenever they need help. The next stage was to provide an on-site support service.

"Our initial research showed there are good technical ICT suppliers in rural areas.

"Our challenge has been to unite them to provide an accessible service to rural businesses."

Andy Tordoff, head of rural renaissance at Yorkshire Forward, said: "We are pleased the First Fix project is ready to expand into a further phase.

"We look forward to seeing First Fix develop a strong rural ICT network."