TOWNS across North Yorkshire will benefit from a service providing free and safe public access to WI-FI.

North Yorkshire County Council has announced that a total of 20 towns in the county will benefit from the Friendly Wi-Fi scheme, including Scarborough.

Launched by the UK government in 2013, the scheme tells users that the services are meeting agreed filtering standards by removing inappropriate content, including indecent images and advertisements.

Those taking part in the scheme will be allowed to display its signs around their town.

Executive member for broadband and mobile telephony at North Yorkshire County Council, Cllr Greg White, said: “We recognise that many families and young adults use the service, so this gives parents confidence that it is filtered and safe.

“Since the roll-out was completed, we have seen high usage across the 20 towns, so we hope the benefits will be felt for years to come.”

The director of Friendly Wi-Fi, Bev Smith, said: “We are thrilled that North Yorkshire County Council has taken the proactive decision to become Friendly Wi-Fi certified.

“It demonstrates the passion to provide a safe and comfortable wi-fi experience for all and shows the commitment to ensure best practice is in place to protect their communities and visitors.  

“They are demonstrating that they are helping to support safe wi-fi to be provided across any town or city and to keep children and young adults protected online.”