BUSINESSES and residents alike are to benefit from improved access to the worldwide web.

Two successful bids to the North West Broadband Fund mean getting on to the Internet will be faster and more efficient.

The first of two local pilot projects is called "Driving up skills in Bury through community e-learning", set up to promote online learning in neighbourhoods.

Councillor Steve Perkins, executive member for lifelong learning, said: "More than £70,000 has been secured from the NW Broadband Fund for this project which will be piloted in East Bury and Radcliffe.

"The venues will be connected to broadband, provided with adequate equipment, and networked to other learning facilities. The funding will also be used to develop an e-learning portal site, web-based e-learning materials, and provide tutor support in person and on-line."

The second project, called "Broadband for Bury Micro Businesses", is a joint bid with Bolton which won £40,000. It will provide ICT support for 50 firms in Bury, who can see how broadband will improve their competitiveness, profitability and customer service.

Interested businesses should contact Brian Berry on 253 5394 or email b.berry@bury.gov.uk

Broadband operates faster than standard Internet connections, is always on-line and enables individuals to use the phone at the same time as using the Internet.