Wireless broadband services offer an alternative to fibre-optic cables in poorly-connected rural areas, it has been claimed.

According to the South Downs Society, consumers living in the countryside can use Wi-Fi to gain access to the faster broadband speeds they desire.

John Songhurst, Chairman of the organisation, told South Downs Living that an increasing number of households in the region are turning to a fixed wireless access service in order to improve their online experience.

Speeds of between 8Mb and 13Mb are available to wireless broadband users choosing this connection route, he claimed.

"A wireless broadband service is growing rapidly in some rural areas, which appears to be providing a reliable short-cut to fast broadband access," Mr Songhurst stated.

Last week, broadband provider 3 announced the launch of a new in-car Wi-Fi service for consumers desiring internet access on the move.