BOLTON'S oldest pub has taken a leap into the future -- after starting its own Internet service for customers.

Regulars at Ye Olde Man and Scythe, Churchgate, can now enjoy a traditional pint and a free trip into cyberspace.

Landlord John Jewitt hopes the beer-proof terminal will add a modern touch to the oak-beamed, 13th century hostelry. And he thinks it might even attract the interest of Lady Charlotte, its famous ghost.

"The pub has only survived a thousand years because it has been successful with each new generation," he said.

"It will only continue to be a success if we move with the times. We were offered the Internet terminal for free and took up the offer straight away."

Customers have already used it to check their pools results and send e-mails to pals. One has even booked a weekend break in Ireland.

But Mr Jewitt thinks it would also have been popular with the 7th Earl of Derby, who spent his last night upstairs before being executed outside in 1651.

He said: "He was a very modern-thinking man so he would have probably enjoyed surfing the Internet. His wife, Lady Charlotte, whose presence has been felt in the pub, probably has a go at night."

Brian Williamson used to go to the library to search the web, but now he pops down to the pub from his home in Plodder Lane, Farnworth. He said: "You have to be quiet when you surf the Internet in a library, but here you can chat to your mates and have a pint as well."