MONMOUTH MP David Davies is offering to help households and communities interested in joining an initiatives to provide rural areas with affordable internet access.

Vodafone, Three and Avanti Communications have launched schemes aimed at connecting some of Monmouthshire’s most isolated broadband and internet ‘not-spots’.

Avanti is willing to install satellite broadband for free in a select few properties for a small monthly charge in order, while Three has joined forces with Race Online and the Countryside Alliance to provide free mobile broadband connectivity in areas which have poor fixed lines.

Vodafone is looking for 12 communities across the UK to take part in rural mobile coverage trials, which will potentially bring affordable 3G mobile internet coverage to rural areas. The trials are due to start early in 2012.

Mr Davies, is chairman of the Welsh Affairs Committee and has been leading a parliamentary inquiry into broadband in Wales.

“Broadband, or rather the lack of it, constitutes a large percentage ofmypostbag and this is a big problem affecting many people in all corners of Monmouthshire,” he said.

For further information, email david.davies.mp@ parliament.uk