Spring Online week aims to get more people using the internet

Today marks the start of Spring Online week, a campaign to get more people in the UK using the internet.

Martha Lane Fox, UK digital champion, said that people "are never too old to get started with the web" and Spring Online, which leads up to the 10th anniversary of Silver Surfers' Day on Friday, "is a great chance for new users to find out more about how the internet can make their lives easier, cheaper and much more fun!"

A survey conducted by Spring Online showed that 86 per cent of people aged 55 and above said that having access to a computer and the internet has improved their lives.

Eight out of 10 people said they could save money by buying products and services online while seven out of 10 said they could do things more quickly online, such as paying bills. More than half of those surveyed (57 per cent) felt that being online resulted in being closer touch with friends and family.

There are more than 2,000 'taster events' taking place across the country with the aim of helping thousands of older people to learn about using computers and the internet.

Miss Lane Fox said: "If everyone in the UK took the time to show an offline family, friend or neighbour the benefits of being online, we'd be very close to enabling millions more people to enjoy life online."

To find a Spring Online event call free on 0800 77 1234. To find an event online visit UK Online Centres or enter a town or postcode in the 'Find a Centre' search box.

There are more details about the campaign at the Spring Online website.