PRESTON is leading the way in a 'wireless' revolution with a state-of-the-art system that will allow people to go online in shops and pubs across the city.

The new wireless network, pioneered by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) and computer company TeleGeneration, will enable laptop or hand-held computer users to access the internet within 100 metres of a special internet point.

More than ten places will be up and running in the next two weeks, including The Variety Pub, in Adelphi Street, and Preston City Council chiefs are helping to extend the innovative project to more than 100 locations within the next year, with cash coming from a Government e-innovations grant of £300,000.

It will be the first time a network like this has ever been used on such a large scale, although students at the UCLan are already using it.

People will have to subscribe to the network, costing £60 per year, to use the facility.

Michael Ahern, director of UCLan's information systems department said: "If people want to check their mail or browse the internet in the city centre they will be able to do so without having to plug in anywhere.

"The low cost of the project means more people can afford to get online, making this a scheme that really is available to everyone."

Businessmen and women in Preston are hoping the initiative will mean a boom in trade.

Susan Carr, manager of The Variety Pub, said: "It will make a difference when term time comes around again.

"The pub is only 25 metres away from the university library and a lot of the students already use the pub as a cafe and meeting point.

"I think they'll bring their laptops over here instead and enjoy a cappuccino while they do their work in a social environment rather than in the library where they can't talk."

Wayne Warner, assistant manager, at Cafe Manyana, Fishergate, believes the idea will bring the city to the forefront of the region.

"I think it's a really good idea and Preston is becoming more like Manchester, not just with technology, but as a whole," he said. "This is another step forward for us.

"People will be drawn out of the office on their lunch hours because they'll be able to sit and do their work in a relaxing situation."

Fulwood Leisure Centre, the Harris Museum and the Town Hall will also benefit and it is hoped the project will be spread to community centres.

Stephen Parkinson, head of communications at Preston City Council, said: "The benefits of being a wireless city are massive, there's real community benefit."