The founders of Digital Lancashire pictured at Preston Docks

Preston firms and tech individuals are some of the founding members behind a new digital organisation aiming to promote Lancashire.

Digital Lancashire has been formed to ‘shine a light on the digital sector in the county’.

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The first 100 individuals or companies to sign up to the organisation – which is a community interest company – become free founder members.

Managing director Stewart Townsend said: “Having worked in the digital sector for over 15 years, I know how much businesses can benefit from collaboration and networking with like-minded companies to find and deliver work and with educational establishments to help discover and develop talent. Collectively we know how much more can be done to benefit each business, the sector as a whole and our local communities and the county.”

Read more: How a lack of talent is holding back Preston tech firms

Among those on the board of the new organisation are Preston-based Jeremy Coates of Magma Digital and Tom Stables from 3ManFactory.

Chair of Digital Lancashire Michael Gibson said: “The digital economy in Lancashire is booming with fantastic businesses including, amongst others, digital agencies, e-commerce companies, online software, big data and artificial intelligence.

“With the digital sector growing three times faster than the rest of the economy and pay 36% higher on average it is vital for Lancashire’s economy that we do everything possible to boost the digital sector.”

What will Digital Lancashire do?

The community interest company says it will provide support to both individuals and organisations working in or aspiring to work in the digital sector in Lancashire.

This will include skills development, funding, investment and helping member companies grow.

How can I become a member?

There’s a registration form on the Digital Lancashire website for individual or corporate membership.