LANCASHIRE'S textile and clothing industry can now turn to cyberspace to discover the support that the Government is making available.

Textiles Minister Patricia Hewitt has launched a new website which outlines the assistance that is available in areas such as investment, export support, research, skills and training.

Ms Hewitt said: "The global market for textiles and clothing is changing rapidly. Government and industry must work together to help industry improve its competitive position.

"We have achieved a significant amount in a short space of time, but we want to do more. Industry must also play its part, embracing change and equipping itself for the challenges of the global knowledge-driven economy," she added.

Steven Walsh of the Blackburn-based Lancashire Textile Manufacturers Association, which represents 70 companies throughout the North West, said the benefits of the Government's support for the industry were starting to come through.

"Our members are aware of the initiatives and are being encouraged to follow them up," he said. "Progress is being made and companies are preparing to take advantage of initiatives such as the major programme to up-skill textile operatives. "

The Government website for the textile and clothing industry is: www.dti.gov.uk/support/textile.htm