NFU Announces 'Tour de Yorkshire' Wifi Tractor
UK - Prime Minister David Cameron complained this week of having to cut short family holidays to Cornwall and having to return to London because of poor broadband and mobile receptions, a situation faced daily by many of the country’s farmers and those living in rural areas.But the NFU, Massey Ferguson and Avonline have teamed up to ensure that broadband is available to everyone within 500 meters of the wifi tractors at two locations on both stages one and two. Tour de Yorkshire represents the first stages of Tour de France (the Grand Depart 2014).
NFU Vice President Guy Smith said: “The NFU has been campaigning for years to ensure that rural communities are not left adrift because of a lack of access to broadband services, or other technologies available that can provide internet connections.
"So we are pleased that the Government is committed to rolling out various projects and pilot schemes with a view to getting 95 per cent of the country superfast broadband by 2017. It has become absolutely clear to the Prime Minister how crucial access is in today’s online world.
“We are delighted to be able to help spectators share their experiences of this world-famous event online quickly, and to help spread the Back British Farming message.”
During stage one (Saturday July 5), the wifi tractors will be located at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Visitor Centre in Hawes and Visitor Centre in Grassington.
At stage two (Sunday July 6), they will be at the Steel Stage event at High Bradfield, near Sheffield, and in Holme village at the foot of Holme Moss climb.
Everyone using the wi-fi will be directed to our Back British Farming website, which includes a new video capturing life on-farm in Yorkshire. Competitions will also be run throughout the event.
Click here to find out more.