Phone mast in countryside landscape (Image: Getty)

       Hikers and tourists exploring the UK’s beauty spots can now benefit from a boost in mobile coverage, the Government has announced. Over 50 mobile masts, initially only used to connect EE customers and those calling 999, have now been upgraded to provide coverage from all mobile network operators.

       These masts cover a footprint equivalent to the size of 66,470 football pitches, and over half of them are providing new coverage to areas of outstanding natural beauty or national parks.

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       Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “Rural communities aren’t just picturesque backdrops - they’re powerhouses of economic growth, contributing over ￡240 billion a year to the UK economy through agriculture, tourism, and small businesses. But for too long, many of these communities have been left with appalling digital connectivity, which has crippled their economic potential.

       “That’s why concerns about digital inclusion of rural communities have been front and centre of my work to deliver growth as part of the Government’s Plan for Change and this milestone marks real progress towards that.

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       “It will help to build a more connected, more resilient country — one where rural businesses can thrive, residents can live and work with greater ease, and visitors can explore with the safety and peace of mind they deserve.”

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       Areas set to benefit from the boost include the North York Moors National Park, parts of the Southern Upland Way, and the Shropshire Hills.

       The upgrades include 28 masts in Wales, 13 in Scotland and nine in England.

       The boost to existing masts will limit the visual and natural impact on the environment, causing less disruption to the surrounding areas, the government said.