PUB customers have been getting to grips with computers and internet technology with a free bite-size course set up in the bar.Locals visiting the Bedfield Crown, near Debenham, for a Friday lunchtime drink last week got more than a pint and a packet of crisps.

PUB customers have been getting to grips with computers and internet technology with a free bite-size course set up in the bar.

Locals visiting the Bedfield Crown, near Debenham, for a Friday lunchtime drink last week got more than a pint and a packet of crisps.

SuffolkOnline, a government funded internet project based in Framlingham and managed by Suffolk ACRE, was running a free online introductory course on Internet genealogy in the pub's bar.

A projector and screen was set up in the bar to enable everyone to join in and enjoy learning in the relaxed atmosphere of a country pub.

The course was one of a series of ICT free bite size courses that SuffolkOnline are running in partnership with the Learning and skills council in rural venues such as village halls, pubs and schools to take the opportunity for learning out into the rural community.

The Bedfield Crown is one of the SuffolkOnline community access points, and has an internet-ready computer installed to give access to all in the SOL project area.

Landlady Jacky Grice felt it was a great idea to run courses in the bar.

"It gives everyone the opportunity to join in – it's so relaxed and friendly," she said.

The Brundish training centre coordinates all the courses offered by SuffolkOnline, including the bite-size ones.

To find out about other opportunities to attend a bite-size course, contact the Brundish Training Centre on 01728 627174 or phone the IAG information line on 0845 603 1059.