INTERNET computers are set to join pool tables and darts boards in the back rooms and bars of pubs in North Yorkshire.

Regulars in rural pubs across the county were today toasting a £436,000 pay-out which will bring the worldwide web into their locals.

North Yorkshire County Council has won the cash to create pub-based learning centres aimed at serving people who have no other access to a computer or the Internet in one of the first such schemes in the country. Their "Locals Online" bid was put together in partnership with the National Federation of Licensed Victuallers.

Terry Begley, education officer at the council, said: "They're going to be 'local' learning centres - literally.

"Each pub will have between three and six computers and we will provide staff to help people with using the Internet."

Carol Pearson, partner of licensee Robin Ince, at The New Inn in Easingwold, said: "A lot of people round here probably haven't got their own computers but might be thinking about getting their own and will be able to have a look at what's involved."

Steven Whitley, landlord of the Royal Oak at Hirst Courtney, took part in a similar scheme which saw computers being put into his pub temporarily through Selby College.

He said: "They were pretty popular and we had computer courses running here. We're pleased to be involved in this new scheme."

The council received £346,000 for capital costs, from the Department for Education and Skills, and another £90,000 for revenue costs, from the National Lottery's New Opportunities Fund, as reported in yesterday's Evening Press, to cover costs for three years. Among the other pubs involved are the School House Inn at Low Marishes, near Malton, the Fox Hounds at Langthorpe, near Boroughbridge, and the Royal Oak at Hunmanby, near Filey.

Updated: 11:55 Tuesday, October 16, 2001