BRINSCALL-BASED internet specialists Thomas Cole Solutions had a surprise visit from Minister for Small Business Patricia Hewitt.

Thanks to its reputation in the fast-growing field of e-commerce, the company was chosen for a visit when the Minister came to the North West.

"The visit came out of the blue," said Ross Johnson, new business director. "It did give the office a buzz and it also presented an opportunity to raise some important issues regarding government policy for regional business and e-business."

Mrs Hewitt was accompanied by Chorley MP Lindsey Hoyle, who said: "I am delighted that the Minister took time out of her busy schedule to come and speak with local businesses and witness the cutting edge of modern technology which exists in our area."

Thomas Cole Solutions, which employs eight people at its Lodge Bank offices, specialises in designing websites and providing e-commerce solutions for small businesses.

The company is now looking to export its expertise and was the only UK firm to attend a recent business-to-business conference in Sweden.