The government has asked four well-known celebrities to act as "ambassadors" for a campaign encouraging use of the Internet.

The stars, TV's Lisa Riley, actress Honor Blackman, yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur and football pundit Alan Hansen, will take part in the efforts to promote the benefits of the world wide web during 2002.

"It's easy to use the internet and there's something for people of all ages, UK online aims to help everyone make the most of it," says "Internet guru" Caramel Quin from UK online.

UK online is a partnership between government, industry, the voluntary sector, trade unions and consumer groups which promotes the benefits of the Internet to individuals, families and businesses.

The celebrities, who were chosen because of their popularity and appeal to people from different age groups and backgrounds, have varying degrees of Internet experience.

Match of the Day commentator Hanson said his children new more about the Internet than he does. "It's time we all caught up with the kids." Seventy-five year old Blackman said her message was: "It's never to late to learn."

MacArthur added: "I use computers a lot and rely on the Internet to source vital race winning weather information and communicate with the team on land when I'm ocean racing. There are definite benefits for everyone in getting online."

Anyone interested in finding out more about getting online can call 0800 771234 or visit the campaigns website at www.letsallgeton.gov.uk.