A national roadshow is visiting Elgin this week in an effort to persuade people of the benefits of going online.
About one in six Scots are still not connected to the internet, but the campaign Let’s Get Online is aimed at showing residents what can be done with technology.
Lewis Riddoch from Buckie, 80, recently started using computers after enrolling in a course at the library in the town.
He said: “Being a farmer my whole life, that was all I knew. I wanted a new interest to keep my mind active and to pass the time.
“Everything is going online now, if you want to pay your bills you need to go on the internet.
“I was a complete beginner and I was a bit nervous, but went along to the library to learn about the internet at the classes there.
“Now, it’s part of my routine. I go to the library through the week and meet up with the friends I have made.”
At the roadshow, staff will show visitors how to carry out routine tasks like setting up an email address, how to call friends and search for jobs. Advice will also be given on how to shop and do banking safely.
Jeane Freeman, Minister for Social Security and Older People, said: “One in six people in Scotland are missing out on the benefits of being online and we want to change that.”
The free roadshow will be at Asda in Elgin on Thursday from 10am to 6pm.
