A DALES pub is one of 15 across North Yorkshire where regulars can now enjoy a byte with their pint.

Chips are on the menu at The Punch Bowl in Low Row from today - albeit the type found in computers.

Tyne Tees TV presenter Andy Kluz will be at the Swaledale hostelry this morning to help launch the Locals On Line network, a pioneering project which offers pub customers access to the Internet via computers installed in snugs and bars around the county.

The aim is to encourage smaller villages to make more use of the technology, while promoting pubs as the hub of the community.

A £300,000 Government grant has helped cover the cost of the scheme, spearheaded by North Yorkshire County Council.

"Often, where there is no village hall, the pub may provide the only public meeting place," said spokesman Councillor Carl Les.

"It is encouraging to see so many are now branching out into the world of computers. Rural pubs have great potential to assume a business and community role."

The computers have been installed in the breakfast room at The Punch Bowl.

"Most locals seem keen to learn more about computers and what you can do with them," said landlord Dave Heron. "They will be useful for visitors as well as they will be able to access their e-mail accounts and send messages home."