SHOPPERS to Hereford city can now enjoy the benefits of free WiFi.

With internet signal for mobiles in the city centre sometimes intermittent, it is a welcome service for many.

Businesses can also log in to the free WiFi, which was launched by the Hereford Business Improvement District (HBID) for the city and is a joint partnership with Herefordshire Council’s Fastershire broadband project.

Mike Truelove, operations manager at Hereford BID, said: “Hereford is steadily rising as a major shopping destination, offering a solid range of shops and leisure activities that consumers expect to see.

"Having the ability to offer free WiFi is a significant step in further, meeting our visitors needs as well as providing new opportunities for our local businesses to reach out to customers in ways we could not do so before”.

He said the power of the system means that the great things going on in the city – including offers or exciting products businesses want to highlight – can be promoted directly to users.

For some businesses, the new network will allow them to take card payments for the first time.

Councillor David Harlow, cabinet member for economy and corporate services responsible for the Fastershire project, said: “This is an exciting development and is another major boost for the city centre.

"The Faster City WiFi scheme aims to create an environment where businesses are able to exploit new digital technologies and provides them with the opportunity to innovate in the ways they engage with their customers and develop their business."

Visitors to Hereford can access the network by simply selecting Hereford FREE WiFi from their WiFi settings.