York offers free internet access in city centre

York council is offering free internet access for people using laptops or smart phones

Free public wi-fi is being rolled out across York city centre following a successful trial.

The wireless internet connection was originally available in St Helen's Square and Coney Street.

The scheme, using the council's existing network, is being extended ahead of the Tour de France, which starts in Leeds on 5 July before heading out across Yorkshire.

The council said costs of the scheme had come from government funding.

Roy Grant, from the council, said providing wi-fi to shoppers could encourage them to explore new parts of the city.

"We actually see wi-fi as a great enabler and we can change people's habits by maybe taking them down streets of York which don't get a lot of footfall," he said.

Wireless access points will be installed providing access for anyone with a laptop, smart phone or other internet-enabled device.