Internet hope for small businesses

It is hoped that internet access will boost business

Hopes are high of securing the necessary funding to support the creation of scores of jobs in Copeland.

A £1m scheme to put local businesses on the internet and link them to major markets could make up to 80 new jobs in the area.

A similar scheme in Workington has helped small companies purchase the equipment they need to raise their profile and tap into new sources of revenue.

The local authority has already agreed to contribute towards the purchase of computer equipment.

And economic leaders are confident they will get support from the North West Development Agency and from the European Union to get the scheme off the ground.

Bern Hellier, head of economic development in Copeland, said he was feeling optimistic that the programme could begin in September.

"The vibes are very good.

"It fits very nicely into the eligibility criteria for the European programme and the North West development Agency have been very supportive."