Residents in north-east Northern Ireland have hit out at the quality of broadband available in some towns and villages.

In Ballymena, downstream speeds of around 8.5Mbps are available at the local BBC office, but this rate drops dramatically just a few miles from the town.

Across the region, many residents surveyed by the BBC revealed they are fortunate if they can access speeds of 0.5Mbps.

Andrew McAllister, rural development manager for the north-east and the owner of a shop in Cushendall, said better broadband for rural communities should be made a top priority.

"We surely should have the same rights as an urban dweller," he stated.

Gary O'Loughlin, who runs the Lara Lodge restaurant in Glenariff, explained he has been told it will be impossible for him to access a decent connection at present, despite his best efforts.

"We've had people out who have put a satellite dish up and run a cable to it 500 yards long, all to no avail," he said.

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