Online communities are re-defining the meaning of networking. Users are turning to a variety of community-based sites to share information on everything from themselves to global events.

They are also increasing their expectations of getting information they want from the Web - news, traffic updates, what's on, local issues. As these needs are evolving so are web sites.

Our website, www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk, and soon to follow our Lancaster and Morecambe and Barrow Browser sites, have just launched a new Events section at http://events.thewestmorland gazette.co.uk. This is a two directional platform - we will be putting in events listings - but so will members of the public from Cumbria and north Lancashire. It will grow to become a primary source of information for what's happening around the region. Space is unlimited so there is room for you to post local happenings. Coffee mornings, sports days, charity fundraisers, drama, arts, exhibitions, festivals, car boot sales - whatever the event - feel free to post it on the website - for free.

Here's a quick guide to posting your event. You need to have some key details at hand - other information you will be able to get right from the online form - like the postal code. To begin with, you need to log in (recommended: Internet Explorer) to http://events.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk or go to The Gazette site and click on the left link to Events.

Add Your Own Events - You will need to have details such as venue, date, time, location, cost ready. Boxes marked with a red asterisk must be filled in. Other optional information includes contact details, notes, whether its suitable for children. A link to Google maps will help you find information like the post code.

Click on the Add your event - free! - button link and you will see the online form to fill in.

The more, the merrier.

If you have any questions, contact the web editor at kate.whiteside@kendal.newsquest.co.uk or telephone 01539-710183.