Uplands Community College in Wadhurst has received a substantial grant from government and the New Opportunity Fund of the National Lottery to encourage people in the rural community to use computers and the Internet. There are several aims to the UK On-line project but, in the broadest sense, the intention is to improve the basic computing skills of the whole community by providing FREE training. The project is specifically aimed at those individuals who don't have access to computer facilities such as e-mail and the Internet as well as those who want to learn new skills in a warm friendly supportive atmosphere.

Open to all in the community above school age, we hope that everybody will take part in some way. There is a permanent Cyber Caf in the Lounge above the Uplands Sports Centre. It is warm, comfortable and open between 8 am and 9.30 pm every day. There is also a lift from the ground floor. 10 computers with very high speed internet connections are available for use by arrangement with the receptionists on 01892-782316.

Weekly FREE TUITION sessions are regularly available. Further details can be found at the Uplands UK Online Centre

CARILLON COTTAGE, next to the Wadhurst Post Office in the High Street, holds regular sessions run by UK Online. These are held in the afternoon for those who cannot make the evening sessions. The sessions are FREE, the environment warm and friendly, and absolute beginners are especially welcome. Phone 01892-785658 to book a place

The easy way to government information and services online - click on the logo above to acces the central and local government information base. Use the link to carry out transactions on line - not many at present but you could:

• submit your self assessment tax form
• apply for a passport - but you will have to sign the form they then post to you
• buy a fishing or TV licence
• nominate someone for an honour - you can at least download the forms
• book a driving theory test
• make a money claim to recover debts
• notify a change of address
• get information on tax credits and submit a claim
• find out about local child care - or What's On in Britain
• in theory - find a local qualified tradesman: but at the moment if you want a general builder, you will be offered ones in Birmingham, Walsall, Bushey, High Wycombe, Folkestone, Dover & Canterbury!

So - it's a start but there is a long way to go before Tony Blair's desire to make all Government services available on line comes even vaguely near to fruition!