TWO West Devon villages can now receive mobile signals, thanks to a new project with Vodafone UK.

Lifton and Chillaton are the latest rural communities to receive Rural Open Sure Signal technology. The technology brings 3G voice services and much needed access to the internet via mobile devices.

A spokesperson for Vodafone UK said: 'Mobile connectivity plays a vital role in keeping communities in touch and helps support local economies.

'However, rural and remote locations often miss out on advantages provided by modern communication tools, due to the complexity of delivering network coverage. This can be because of the geography of the area or difficulties with planning permissions in places of outstanding natural beauty.'

Involving a partnership with both the villages and MP for West Devon and Torridge Geoffrey Cox, Vodafone UK has now installed the technology across several locations in both villages, meaning the communities will now have good quality mobile signal for the first time and are able to take part in and enjoy the social and business benefits that mobile connectivity can bring.

Chairman of Lifton Parish Council Cllr Chris Edmonds said: 'Lifton has always suffered with poor mobile coverage.

'The arrival of the Vodafone Rural Open Sure Signal programme is important for everyone — our residents, businesses and visitors to the village.

'We can now start enjoying the benefits of reliable mobile coverage for the first time.'