MINEHEAD Youth Hostel has joined the 21st century by installing an internet-ready computer at its base in Alcombe Combe.

The move is part of a bid to reverse the drastic decline in business caused by foot and mouth disease restrictions.

The Exmoor Trust donated £500 towards the cost of buying the computer.

Although many of the paths both to and around the hostel were closed during the summer, manager Andrew Grainger was kept busy redecorating the family bunkrooms and landscaping the grounds.

He hopes the new computer will help to attract visitors from all over the world, especially as the Youth Hostel Association has its own website.

Meanwhile, anyone who can lend a hand with the upkeep of the hostel, from DIY to gardening and even computer skills is being invited to do their bit in return for a free night's midweek accommodation plus the chance to do a spot of badger watching on the lawn.

More information is available from Andrew on 01643 702595.