Free London Underground wi-fi extended

Virgin Media said more stations were due to go online in 2012

Free wi-fi at some London Underground stations is to continue for the rest of the year.

Virgin Media, which runs the service at 72 stations, said more stations were due to go online in 2012.

It claimed more than 661,000 people were using the service, including at Waterloo, Victoria, Oxford Circus and King's Cross stations.

The service was originally meant to become a pay-as-you-go offering after the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

'Incredible success'

Jon James, executive director of broadband at Virgin Media, said the London Underground wi-fi had been "an incredible success".

He said: "Commuters and visitors will be able to make use of the internet throughout 2012 and we're in positive talks with potential wholesale partners to ensure a fantastic experience for all Tube passengers throughout 2012 and beyond."

From next year, Virgin Media's mobile and broadband customers will be offered continued access as part of their subscriptions.

Non-paying users will be limited to a site showing online travel information and some free news and entertainment.