Apply now for mobile scheme

MOBILE phone provider Vodafone is calling for applications from rural communities to apply to the Open Sure Signal box scheme for places without reliable mobile coverage.

If successful, Vodafone will give the community a box which will bring Vodafone indoor 3G mobile coverage to create an essential rural community hotspot for the first time.

This will bring both 3G voice and data coverage ensuring both employees and visitors to the community hubs will be able to make both calls and use data on their mobile phones or tablets.

The application process will be open until September 1, with the first communities selected being announced in the autumn.

Jorge Fernandes, from Vodafone, said: ‘By installing our units, we can ensure these vital rural hotspots continue to play an important role in rural community life. We call for rural community hubs across Scotland to apply.’