Mobile phone coverage boost for UK villages

Mobile phone coverage in rural areas of the UK is to be improved by Vodafone as the government works on plans to eliminate gaps in the telecoms network.

The telecoms group will provide mobile access for the first time for 100 communities across the UK. Villages can apply for installation of Vodafone’s technology, which will offer 3G mobile coverage. Vodafone uses femtocell technology, which typically involve small base stations and masts, to provide a 3G signal in areas where coverage has been unable to reach. The small boxes can be installed on buildings such as village halls, pubs, shops and homes across a community.