WI-FI on the go has been rolled out to two more bus services in Swindon following the success of an initial trial run.

Thamesdown Transport and Swindon Travel Choices have launched phase two of their Wi-Fi project, extending free internet to services 11, from Haydon Wick to Pinehurst, and 12, which travels between St Andrew’s Ridge and the Great Western Hospital.

The scheme was introduced back in May on a number of buses on the number 15 route, which runs from East Wichel and through to Haydon Wick.

Passengers were then consulted on their views and experiences to ensure that the system was performing well.

Around 900 Wi-Fi users completed the survey, with 91 per cent rating the scheme as either excellent or very good.

A total of 83 per cent also said that it had encouraged them to use the bus more often. Thamesdown and Swindon Travel Choices, funded by Swindon Council, have now taken steps to widen it across the whole bus network.

Paul Jenkins, Thames-down managing director, said: “The Wi-Fi project has been very well received by the bus passengers of Swindon.

“Bus travel around the town is easy and, by having a reliable Wi-Fi service, people can make the most of their time, whether they are commuting or travelling for leisure, to look at emails and catch up with their friends online."

The majority of passengers were found to use Wi-Fi to access social media.

The system also allows them to download small amounts of data or check their emails. Commuters do not have to sign up or enter a password to access the network – just tick a box on their screen to agree to conditions of use.

Coun Keith Williams, Swindon Council's cabinet member for High-ways, Strategic Transport and Leisure, added: “It is good news that Wi-Fi on Thames-down Service 15 is proving so popular.

“The funding the council has received to support the launch of the service, via Swindon Travel Choices, on other routes will hopefully support the increased use of buses throughout Swindon.”