RESIDENTS in Nelson's Bradley and Colne's Waterside and Vivary Bridge wards are being invited to join a group to oversee the possible development of cyber-cafes in their communities.

These would provide an informal walk-in community setting for local people to gain access to the Internet and a range of other computer facilities, while enjoying a coffee or tea and a chat with friends.

The idea is being promoted as a possible use for some of the £2.68m of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) money awarded to Pendle Partnership.

A project steering group in Brierfield is already looking at the feasibility of establishing a cyber-cafe in the town.

Organisers hope that by encouraging more people to use computers, they can stimulate economic development in some of the least affluent wards in Pendle.

They also hope that by providing IT facilities in friendly, informal surroundings that people who have never used a computer before can be encouraged to get on-line.

The facility might also be used to support other activities and could provide community-based learning.

Nelson Community Economic Development Officer Paul Crowther is setting up the cyber-cafe steering groups and wants local residents to get involved in the projects at an early stage.

He thinks it is vital that they decide what sort of facility they want and are involved in planning it.

"This is a great opportunity for local people to have their say about how European money should be spent and to get involved in setting up a cyber-cafe", he said.

"No experience is needed, just lots of enthusiasm. This kind of project can be a fantastic learning experience for those involved.

"Members of the community will be working alongside experienced project managers.

"The project management skills that people learn can be used later to get full-time employment or a better job."

The cyber-cafe idea is being supported by a local company who will help residents draw up the European funding bid and assist them with managing the facility once it is up and running.

Anyone interested in helping to set up a cyber-cafe in Nelson or Colne can contact Paul Crowther on 01282 661613.

Or they can email him at paul.crowther@pendle.gov.uk