THE city of York is leading the UK when it comes to the Internet broadband revolution.

The number of high-speed connections in the city grew by almost double the national average last year, according to BT.

Regional director Brian Greenwood said the rate was the result of successful co-operation with public and private sector partners.

The company has worked with Science City York, the regional development agency Yorkshire Forward, and a range of local businesses and other organisations to raise awareness of the potential of high-speed broadband,

Mr Greenwood said: "Our partner organisations have recognised the power of broadband, and seized opportunities to work with BT to bring the benefits to people who live and work across the region.

"They have put their own resources, energy and enthusiasm into this partnership approach."

There are about 3,400 broadband connections in the city, about five per cent of households, compared to only 400 in April last year.

It means that broadband use has risen by more than 700 per cent in 12 months, almost twice as fast as the UK average rate.