A CANVASSING exercise to raise awareness of the advantages of broadband Internet connection has started in Sedgefield.

But villagers have been told they do not need to disclose their credit card details at this stage.

A campaign to get broadband for the village is being organised by borough and town councillor John Robinson.

The system enables more information to be downloaded on the Internet much more quickly.

He has been in touch with BT, which has told him the company must have 350 people register an interest before the service can be provided at the Sedgefield exchange.

Meanwhile, a company working in partnership with BT has been active in the village.

Some residents have said they are being asked for personal details, including their credit card numbers.

But BT spokesman Paul Dorrell said: "I think we need to reassure people that we certainly do not require, expect or request credit card details to be given. It is an awareness campaign."

For details about the Sedgefield campaign or to register support visit www.bt.com/broadband.