Herefordshire recruits volunteers to promote super-fast broadband

A group of volunteers have been drafted in to explain the benefits of high-speed broadband to rural communities in Herefordshire.

According to the Hereford Times, the local authority wants the "broadband champions" to keep people informed about changes in their area and promote the importance of super-fast internet connections.

Scientist and university lecturer Toby Murcott is one of the first volunteers to accept the role and will speak to people about Borders Broadband, the collaborative partnership between Herefordshire and Gloucestershire councils.

"The benefits high-speed broadband will bring are immeasurable," he told the newspaper.

"Elderly people living alone can be in regular video contact with family or friends, or could consult their doctors via a webcam."

Last week, Broadband Delivery UK confirmed that Herefordshire has been awarded £6.35 million to improve its broadband infrastructure as part of the government's £530 million funding package.

Data from Ofcom has shown the county is one of the slowest regions in the UK, with the average download speed currently standing at just 5Mbps.