Thousands of local people have already flocked to newbury.net since it launched last month, where they can access exclusive news stories, gauge the public mood on topical issues on the forum, or contact local tradesmen, pubs and florists in seconds.

Town mayor Mike Rodger is a big fan of the site, and believes it could help foster a stronger community spirit in Newbury.

He says: "Newbury has a bright future, and in these exciting times, I am delighted that the issues I often hear about in the town hall can now take place in cyberspace.

"Newbury's prosperity has been founded on new technology, so it's only fitting that the town has a great website to show off what we can do."

The newbury.net team – led by local businessman Brian Burgess - is passionate about the town, and hopes are high that it will quickly become the first port of call for local information.

In the first month alone, more than 75% of visitors have said the site is "excellent", but Brian Burgess says there's much more to come.

"People tell us they love the site because there's something new on newbury.net every day, and it’s all local. Furthermore, it acts as a great shop window for Newbury, and should bring in more visitors."

New sections will be added to the site in the next few months, and links provided to local businesses.