Business leaders hope to bring in a free Wi-Fi network in the Witham’s high street, shops and cafés this year.

Witham’s Chamber of Commerce has selected Kelvedon firm APC Solutions, a leading UK specialist in wireless communications, network infrastructure and mobile computing, to carry out the project in a bid to boost visitor numbers and trade.

Currently, only The Grove Centre and Newland Shopping Centre have Wi-Fi hotspots.

As well as offering shoppers quick and free internet without having to continuously log in to different servers, it is hoped the service would allow people to access offers and information about what is happening in the town.

Corinne Thompson, chairman of the town’s Chamber of Commerce, said: “We want to have W-Fi all along Newland Street so when you walk through the high street, you have got one continuous link.

“You don’t have to log in and out."

See this week's Witham Times for the full story.