A WILTSHIRE-wide drive to increase the usage and awareness of broadband technology is celebrating success nearly two years earlier than expected.

The eWiltshire and eSwindon campaigns have already encouraged more than 20 per cent of residents and businesses to get connected to high-speed internet services.

The original target set by the programme's main funding partner, the South West of England Regional Development Agency, was to achieve 20 per cent take-up by November 2006.

"When we launched eWiltshire and eSwindon back in November 2003, we were aware of the achievements of the Cornwall broadband project, and knew that there were high expectations on us," said Mark Baker, chairman of the South West of England Regional Development Agency.

"People have responded tremendously well to our campaigns and the take-up rates speak for themselves."

The focus of the programme is now changing to make sure that people with broadband are really making the most of the technology.

The eWiltshire and eSwindon projects are at the heart of a multi-million pound initiative to create broadband opportunities for businesses, communities, learners and home users in Wiltshire and Swindon.

The programme offers a wide range of services including free community broadband access points, free eBusiness advice, discounts on online learning packages and free eLearning Pods to businesses.

Details are available at www.eWiltshire.com or through the project help/information line on 0845 600 3331.