E-COMMERCE Minister Patricia Hewitt was in Chorley yesterday (Wednesday) to launch the Rural White Paper in the North West.

She visited Bishop Rawstorne CE International Language College to see how a rural school is meeting the challenge of new technology.

The document is a comprehensive strategy aimed at revitalising rural communities, and for the first time will set out new national standards for public services in rural areas.

Bishop Rawstorne is said to be an outstanding example of a thriving rural school at the heart of village life.

It has close links with local businesses and a web site aimed at boosting tourism in the area.