Ten times the number of businesses in Cumbria have taken up broadband over the last four years thanks to a £20 million scheme.

The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) has been working with companies to increase take-up of broadband during the period.

Firms in Cumbria and north Lancashire were thought to have been at a disadvantage previously.

Statistics show 16,612 businesses now have broadband connections, representing 71 per cent from a seven per cent take-up rate before.

People in those areas were now more familiar with ICT and mobile ways of working, NWDA chief executive Steven Broomhead said.

He added: "Sectors that were not previously viable in the area are now thriving such as digital and creative, while industries supported by the technology such as tourism have thrived."

Since adopting broadband 30 per cent of Cumbrian businesses their range of customers has increased, while 24 per cent say it has made their businesses more profitable.

More people in cities are also using mobile technology after working hours, including laptops, notepads, mobile phones and email.