A CAMPAIGN to encourage businesses to make greater use of the internet is paying off, according to Devon County Council.

The government-led initiative to raise awareness of the benefits the worldwide web can provide involves encouraging businesses and individuals to try using the internet via a series of taster sessions held in village halls and community centres, such as those held recently in Chagford and Lewdown.

One West Devon couple have already grasped the opportunity to make better use of the information superhighway. Angela and Ian Minshull produce ceramics and iron work at Theale, near Tavistock.

Using money from the Foot and Mouth Recovery Fund, the couple have now set up their own website for Theale Crafts.

Ian said: ?With assistance from West Devon Business Information Point, we obtained a grant to get help to set up our own website ? and with the aid of our computer have designed leaflets.

?We?ve had e-mail enquiries for our hand-made gifts from all over the world. If you think the internet is something that happens to other people here?s your chance to try it yourself ? for free.?

Taster computer sessions are available at libraries in Tavistock and Okehampton. Trial one-hour sessions using the BBC?s Webwise CD lead clients through the worldwide web, showing them how to use the equipment, navigate the internet and use search engines to find information. The sessions are self-directed and the programme takes about an hour to complete.

Anyone wishing to use the computer at the library should contact staff to book in advance. And at Tavistock Library, there is special needs equipment available, including magnified text, text speech, larger keyboards and mice.

Cllr Derrick Spear, executive member for economy and regeneration for the county, said: ?There are still many people who have never used the internet and are unaware of its possibilities.

?I hope that businesses will take advantage of this offer and find out what it can do for them.?