RURAL communities throughout the Vale could benefit from increased broadband speeds after the European Commission announced an £8bn investment in rural networks.

Britain suffers from particularly slow broadband, especially in parts of the West Midlands, and the funding is planned for 2014 - 2020.

It has been welcomed by county Euro MP Liz Lynne who hopes it could lead to further investment in the region.

She said: “This bold plan by the European Commission to invest in rural broadband is very welcome news, especially for our area.

“High speed rural broadband is absolutely essential to allow rural businesses in the West Midlands to compete and expand to create good quality jobs outside the big cities.

“I wholeheartedly support the European Commission’s digital agenda, which should enhance the UK Government’s recent plans to tackle the connectivity crisis.”