COMPUTER buffs can surf the internet at Cookley Village Hall after it was given one year’s free broadband as part of a BT programme.

Members of the village hall association were shocked when their bid for free broadband was successful after applying to BT’s community connections award scheme.

The judges, who included representatives from Race Online 2012, were impressed by the group’s ideas of how they would help people get online and train people to use the internet.

People can use the internet cafe when it opens in about three weeks.

David Bareford, secretary, said: “We were quite amazed really. We [applied] not really expecting to get the prize. It’s very useful for us all.

“In Cookley we have got no public transport in the evening so it will allow people to come down here and use this facility - some of us don’t have good broadband access at all in the village.”

Ian Binks, BT’s regional manager for Worcestershire and the West Midlands, said It was important to support group’s introducing people to the internet.

He added: “Connecting people is at the heart of BT. We understand that it is increasingly important for people to have confidence in using technology to help enhance their lives.

“Our commitment reflects the enormous potential digital inclusion has to make a positive difference, not only to the lives of individuals but also to society as a whole.”