A woman from a Grantham area village who battled to get broadband connections for cut-off residents has been given a pat on the back at the Government-backed UK Catalyst Awards.

Helen Anderson, a founding member of the South Witham Broadband social enterprise was honoured with the Individual Hero award after providing a broadband service for the area after national companies refused to help.

Anderson’s wireless broadband service now provides internet connections throughout Britain and specialises in “long lines” other providers are unwilling to service. Chief Executive Officer of the Community Broadband Network, Malcom Corbett, explained: “South Witham Broadband is a fantastic example of a social enterprise that delivers a first class service to their local community.

“When the big players turn their back on rural communities, creating so-called “not-spots”, it’s great when local people prove them wrong.

“We’re proud to work with SWB and look forward to continuing to help local people set up their own broadband services throughout the UK.”

South Witham Broadband founder, Helen Anderson received her award from Third Sector Minister Phil Hope. Anderson commented: “We’re proud to offer a price competitive, unique service, which relates to customers as individuals, something the big providers would find impossible to match.

“What’s more, through our membership of the Community Broadband Network, we are able to provide mentoring and advice to enterprises similar to ours throughout the UK.

“This enables more and more people to get connected and take charge of their own broadband future.”

Source: Grantham Journal

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