Vodafone has announced plans to extend its mobile broadband coverage in Wales. The operator is to increase the reach of its 3G and 4G networks, ensuring 94 per cent of the Welsh population can get online via their dongles, tablets and smartphones.

Vodafone aims to improve both indoor and outdoor network coverage, with a number of towns and cities - including Caerphilly, Cardiff, Connah’s Quay, Llanelli, Newport and Penarth - set to gain enhanced 4G connectivity.

The firm has also announced that Loggersheads Country Park and Brynesglwys in Denbighshire, Moylegrove in Pembrokeshire and Corris in Gwynedd have been shortlisted to receive 3G coverage under the Rural Open Sure Signal programme.

Economy Minister Edwina Hart said the news that Vodafone is investing in Wales with its network and services is "very welcome".

She claimed that connectivity is "a key priority" for the Welsh Government, and the rollout of Vodafone’s 4G will mean fast internet speeds, which will benefit residents, businesses and visitors alike.

"I also warmly welcome the improvements in connectivity that the local communities shortlisted for the Rural Open Sure Signal programme will see," Ms Hart stated.

Jorge Fernandes, Chief Technology Officer for Vodafone UK, said the firm's network improvements across Wales will ensure more people and businesses have the opportunity to thrive in today’s digital world.

"The launch of 4G will give them the opportunity to access and share data faster than ever before," he stated.

Mr Fernandes claimed that the latest announcement is "only the start" as Vodafone continues to invest in its network and services across the country.

Last month, it was announced that Bridgend in South Wales had become the 400th community to benefit from the arrival of Vodafone’s ultra-fast 4G service.

The operator is investing £1 billion upgrading its network and services across the country.