Many web users in the UK support the idea of rolling out fibre-optic broadband in rural areas before urban locations, according to a new poll.

The survey by ISPreview.co.uk found that 62 per cent of adults would like the UK government to deploy super-fast internet services in the countryside, in what has been described as "an outside-in" approach.

In contrast, 38 per cent chose to back an "inside-out" plan which would see cities and towns benefit first.

Mark Jackson, Founder of ISPreview.co.uk, said people now recognise the importance of using public money to connect rural areas with high-speed broadband.

He added: "Deploying super-fast services would help them to keep pace with the modern world, improve communications, bring vital new services and offer local businesses a powerful platform for revolutionising local trade."

BT recently revealed it has agreed to bring fibre-optic broadband to the Kent village of Iwade as part of an agreement with the local parish council.