BOSSES at a historic tourist attraction dating back to the 14th century have found a 21st century solution to technology problems.

Samlesbury Hall near Blackburn needed to update its computer systems to help its back-room staff work more effectively, and turned to broadband.

But the age of the hall, which dates to 1325, meant normal solutions could not be used - the fabric of the building could not be touched to lay extra cables, and wireless internet could not be used as the walls were too thick and blocked the signal.

So Samlesbury Hall teamed up with the Lancashire Digital Development Agency (LDDA)- a body set up to promote hi-tech business solutions including the use of broadband - and found a solution from America.

The hall has used a system which transforms electrical plug sockets into internet access points, meaning broadband is available in every room of the hall.

Under the system, a broadband signal is transmitted through the electrical wiring, rather than an extra phone line.

Now staff are using the system to help their work - for instance sending pictures of antiques over the internet to experts anywhere in the world for valuation.

Sharon Jones, director of the hall, said: "We knew we could work more efficiently if we connected all our back office systems and gave everyone access to the internet. But with limited funding and the difficulties of working on a listed building that dates back to 1325, we just couldn't see a way forward.

"We can send digital photographs of antiques to specialists anywhere in the world for a valuation. We also have a new website which we can update ourselves to promote special events being held at the hall. On top of all that, we can now offer business people the facility of broadband access."

The system, known as Telkonet iWire, was developed in America, and was fitted into Samlesbury Hall by Kent-based Systemax Communications.

Richard Hughes, e-envoy at the LDDA said: "Samlesbury Hall brought us in and the clear priority was broadband access. However, given the age of the building, the thickness of the walls, the lead windows, limited funds and the fact that it is a listed building the project presented a few problems."