For those living in broadband blackspots, there are still ways of receiving internet services, it has been suggested.

Commenting in response to a reader who lives in an area of Devon without broadband access, the Guardian technology expert Jack Schofield has said that there are a few options that can be considered.

While dial-up services are a possibility, he comments that faster speeds may be achieved if a formal arrangement is made with neighbours who are able to receive broadband to share bandwidth wirelessly.

He also adds that a number of technologies will soon become available that may further improve overall broadband access in the UK.

"The main ones are WiMax, which is a kind of long-range Wi-Fi and Power Line Carrier, which sends broadband over mains electricity cables," Mr Schofield comments.

A number of government initiatives are also in place to improve broadband access, with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs stating that providing better rural internet coverage is a top priority in Whitehall.