Press Release
For Immediate Release

First Norwich POP comes with a pint at the hottest spot this Summer!

Norwich gets its first internet 'hot spot' in a local pub as mini-POP improves high-speed, high-bandwidth access

Norwich, 20 June 2003 - Local companies, Freeclix and The Unthank Arms, have linked-up to provide the first 'hot spot' using the KooKu network in a Norfolk pub. The venture demonstrates that whilst other companies are still talking about broadband viability, in Norwich high-speed, high-bandwidth technology is already available with your pint.

Freeclix's and KooKu's initiative in creating the first mini point of presence (mini-POP) in Norwich has enabled greater public access to 'better than broadband' technology. As the first pub in Norwich to recognise the benefits of this, logging on at The Unthank is now quick, cheap and easy; via a Kooku walk-in, high-speed, always-on, SDSL, wireless local area network.

Nick De'Ath, proprietor at The Unthank Arms explained, "It's much easier to use than it may sound, with just a brief setup process, you can be logged on and enjoying lunch within minutes. Via a pay-as-you-go connection, which is more powerful that your average broadband, you're still connected to your email and the office, but ensconced in The Unthank Arms."

Norwich South MP and Minister for Education, Charles Clarke supported the project, commenting "This venture shows how local businesses can provide solutions to regional demands such as greater broadband access. I'm delighted that two Norwich companies are leading the way in proving it is possible to have effective communications outside of the traditional capital city hubs."

Kooku spokesperson, Jeff Martin said, "We are delighted to be involved in enabling the first pub in Norwich, the Unthank Arms, with this cutting edge technology and the KooKu network. This will provide the local community and business people visiting the Unthank Arms with instant internet access." KooKu is a virtual network of independently hosted 802.11x Wireless Hotspots and allows complete flexibility of service provision and removes the requirement for Credit Checks, Credit Card support etc. It also means that unlike other WiFi Networks who offer on line sign up, which can take up to 20 minutes to complete, KooKu offers the ability to walk in buy a card and surf.

About The Unthank Arms

Described as "where grunge meets Gucci", The Unthank Arms is a traditional pub in the heart of one of Norwich's 'golden triangle'. An independent establishment, it has a solid range of beers and a well-deserved reputation for good food, both downstairs in the convivial bar or upstairs in 'Hanisons' a more relaxed dining area. The Unthank Arms now has a wi-fi internet hotspot. Visit the website at www.theunthankarms.com.

About KooKu

KooKu is a virtual network of independently hosted 802.11x Wireless Hotspots. KooKu provides the ability for small providers, regional operators and hospitality sites to offer end users access to a Pan-European (potentially global), roaming enabled hotspot network. By its virtual nature, KooKu allows each host to provide independent branding - with the caveat that each card carries the KooKu logo to ensure ease of roaming acknowledgement. The business model that KooKu is based on allows for revenue sharing based on Access Time sold and also the length of time that End Users spend accessing the Internet through each Hotspot.

KooKu is based on a Pre-Paid system of payment, this allows complete flexibility of service provision and removes the requirement for Credit Checks, Credit Card support etc. It also means that unlike other WiFi Networks who offer on line sign up, which can take up to 20 minutes to complete, KooKu offers the ability to walk in buy a card and surf. SMS support allowing end users to acquire a Username / Password if the point of sale is closed will also be available by the end of June.

For more information and photography, please contact:
Jeff Martin
KooKu Limited
Tel: +44 (0)8454 66 00 11
Email: jeff.martin@kooku.com

- ends -