AN advice and information centre has up-to-date technology thanks to a BT scheme connecting communities to the worldwide web.

Clients of the Signpost service, in Crook, have speedy access to a wide range of services through a computer at its new Market Place office.

The machine and £100 towards its first-year running costs were awarded through a £1m BT Community Connections scheme which aims to open up the Internet to thousands of groups across the UK.

It was handed over yesterday by Government Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong, who is also MP for North-West Durham.

Signpost chairman Councillor Eddie Murphy said: "Last year we gained over £250,000 in benefits for our clients. Now it will be possible to speed up claims through the Internet."