Each pub has between two and six computers

They have joined the county council's "Locals Online" project which is designed to create a network of rural learning centres.

Each pub will have between two and six computers for locals to use.

One of the first to go online was the Fox and Hounds in Bullamoor Road, Northallerton.

Christmas presents

Licensee David Hawksworth said: "Customers find the computers very useful and simple to use.

"One customer used them to buy all their Christmas presents over the internet."

The project is being paid for by North Yorkshire County Council's continuing education unit backed by a £300,000 government grant.

Councillor Chris Metcalfe, the county council's executive member for education, said: "Often where there is no village hall, the pub may provide the only public meeting place.

"They have great potential to assume a business and community role."