Preston Council has devised the unit, called Citizenzone, allowing residents to board the £20,000 vehicle that includes a plasma screen, DVD and CD presentation equipment and computers with high speed internet access.

Services will be provided by the council, the police, NHS and other partner organisations.

People can get advice about everything from housing benefits to community policing.

The vehicle can be used for meetings, community events and as a training hub where individuals can learn how to use the internet among other things.

Nigel Heckford, area forum manager responsible for Citizenzone, said: "It's a brand new way for the council, health services, police, county council, community and voluntary sector to communicate with the public."

Mayor of Preston Coun Christine Abram said: "The Citizenzone vehicle is like a 'Tardis'; inside there is so much going on.

"Once you've explained your query it is transferred to the town hall where relevant information is printed so that you get the help you need at once."

Carol Thompson, 32 from Fulwood, said: "I think it's a really good idea because citizen advice centre isn't that good.

"I would be interested in the free internet access as I'm not confident using computers and if there are people who could train me to use the internet that would be very useful."