Google sends Streetview tricycles to Bletchley Park

INTERNET SEARCH OUTFIT Google is extending the reach of its Streetview nosey neighbour service to Bletchley Park, the home of UK code-breaking in the second world war.

This is the latest in a series of off beat locations to be added to the database, according to a Google spokesperson, who for the purpose of making cycling puns we are calling Spokey, and is unlikely to be the last. In the case of Bletchley, the presence of Google's eyes and gears, is likely to raise awareness of the site, and - we hope - donations to it.

"Street View 'Special Collects' are made in off the beaten track locations, pedestrian areas as well as inside and outside of famous landmarks, historic buildings and sport stadiums," said Spokey.

"Through Street View users can explore cultural sites around the world, including historic city centres and archaeological sites for example. Bletchley Park will form part of this collection, where viewers from all over the world can be made aware of this historical site, which played a pivotal role for Britain in World War II."

Google has come forward as a supporter of Bletchley park and was quite vocal in its support for plans to keep Alan Turing's papers at the site.

"Dr Turing is a hero to many of us at Google for his pioneering work on algorithms and the development of computer science. He's also an important figure for many across the world who face homophobic attacks and bullying," wrote the firm in a release.

"[Bletchley Park] asked Google for our support in purchasing the papers for Bletchley Park, which we agree is clearly the right place to house them. We are backing the bid with a contribution of $100,000 towards a successful purchase."

Ultimately the campaign to save the Turing papers was a success, thanks in no small part to a last-minute £200,000 donation from the National Heritage Memorial Fund. µ