Businesses in north and West Cumbria are set for a major internet speed boost as local provider Solway Comms expands its local coverage.

The Carlisle-based company uses wireless transmitters to provide fast internet in areas that are not reached by the existing BT network.

Over the last seven years they have provided coverage from Maryport to Brampton, covering Carlisle, surrounding villages, and many areas in between including Caldbeck and Wigton.

By installing a new mast near Moota, they will roll out the service to households and businesses in Cockermouth, Maryport, Tallentire, Blindcrake, Redmain and Dearham.

Nick Kittoe, Solway Comms managing director, said: “In 2017 nobody should really have to put up with slow and unreliable broadband and it is a disgrace that some people in Cumbria still have to.

“We are particularly pleased to be able to help local businesses and farms, two groups that really need a good broadband connection now.

“Expanding our network with our new Moota mast is a fantastic development.”

Solway Comms also provides DIA (Direct Internet Access) connections, in which fibre optic cables are installed directly from a workplace or business to the telephone exchange.

A subsidy towards new broadband connections is also currently available to Cumbrians suffering from slow speeds.

The Basic Broadband Subsidy, provided by the Government, runs out at the end of 2017, and is designed to help those with speeds of under 2mb/s upgrade their connection.