North Norfolk District Council has sought to step into the age of artificial intelligence by introducing a chatbot on its website. 

Called 'Nelly', the system has just gone live on www.north-norfolk.gov.uk to mark National Customer Service Week.

Stuart Harber, the council's customer services manager, said Nelly was "quick, convenient, 24/7".

He said: "Rather than having to pick up the phone or come into the offices to see a customer service advisor, you can access the information online via our chatbot.

"If you can't find what you're looking for the chatbot is in place to support you." 

Nelly can point users in the right direction with inquiries into topics including bins, housing, benefits, planning and elections.

The service appears as a window in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen when the council's website is opened. 

The council’s customer services team will still be available to help during normal office hours.