An MP and MEP have welcomed a project using churches to bring better broadband to rural communities.

Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman and Geoffrey Van Orden, MEP, visited St Peter and St Paul church in Carbrooke, near Watton, yesterday to see how the local WiSpire scheme is set to increase broadband speed from 0.5mb/s to up to 8Mb.

Families from the area have been able to sign up with WiSpire for £13 a month. The project involves the Diocese of Norwich and FreeClix, a Norwich-based internet service provider, using a signal emitted from transmitters in the church tower.

WiSpire will provide increased broadband speeds in areas not yet covered by national plans for faster broadband delivery.

Mr Freeman said: 'Better broadband is crucial to Norfolk's development. Far too many homes and commercial properties are stuck without basic broadband. Innovative initiatives such as WiSpire will make it easier for the local people to work, shop, learn and keep in touch.'

David Broom, director of operations and deputy diocesan secretary at the diocese of Norwich, said: 'WiSpire goes from strength to strength and is a great opportunity for churches to support their local communities as well as using modern technology for local mission and ministry purposes.'

Mr Van Orden said: 'Being an MEP for the East of England, I cover over 50 Westminster constituencies, however from time to time particular initiatives really stand out, and this is one of them. The geography of Mid Norfolk, a relatively flat, wide area dotted with churches is the perfect location for such an initiative.'