Broadband access can have many benefits for homeowners across the UK, according to an expert.

Helen Milner, Managing Director of advice body UK Online Centres, said that while the government's current efforts to get people to embrace the web is not a "crusade", the internet is helping many people make "an informed choice" on issues.

Through the internet, people can enjoy access to home delivery for shopping, as well as more information about hobbies and financial services, she explained.

Ms Milner added: "The internet can save people time, hassle, and even money, and everyone should have an equal chance and an equal choice to access those benefits, and make use of those services.

"People are at a disadvantage if they are not able to take digital opportunities or make digital choices."

PayPal recently published research which revealed that a number of people who live in rural areas rely on the internet for a range of tasks, particularly shopping facilities.