Helen Anderson, who was one of the founders of the South Witham Broadband social enterprise in 2004, triumphed in the Individual Hero category at the Government-backed UK Catalyst Awards.

She was recognised by judges for her work to provide a broadband service for South Witham and the surrounding area after national companies refused to.

The enterprise now provides a wireless broadband service locally and ADSL broadband services throughout Britian, specialising in "long lines" other providers turn away.

Helen said: "I am delighted to have won this award, which is a recognition not of myself but the achievements of South Witham Broadband over the last four years.

"We're proud to offer a price competitive, unique service, which relates to customers as individuals, something the big providers would find impossible to match.

"What's more, through our membership of the Community Broadband Network, we are able to provide mentoring and advice to enterprises similar to ours throughout the UK.

"This enables more and more people to get connected and take charge of their own broadband future."

Chief Executive Officer of the Community Broadband Network Malcolm Corbett said: "South Witham Broadband is a fantastic example of a social enterprise that delivers a first class service to their local community.

"Helen is an inspiring person, as are the other members of the SWB team, and she thoroughly deserves this award.

"When the big players turn their back on rural communities, creating so-called "not-spots", it's great when local people prove them wrong.

"We're proud to work with SWB and look forward to continuing to help local people set up their own broadband services throughout the UK."

More about SWB by clicking here.

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