High levels of broadband connectivity are helping to attract foreign investment to the West Country, according to Into Somerset.

The business relocation service revealed high-speed broadband access is one of the key factors in the county's appeal to entrepreneurs. Other reasons include cost-effective commercial property prices and a number of thriving industries, such as renewable energy, aerospace and advanced engineering.

Rupert Cox, chief executive of Into Somerset, said French firms have been particularly interested in backing a proposed new nuclear facility at Hinkley Point.

"We have been liaising with overseas companies for some time and welcoming many of them to Somerset to find out more about the vast range of investment opportunities available here," he added.

Despite these comments, the Somerset community of Dulverton recently shelved plans to boost internet speeds in the area due to lack of funding.

Chris Nelder, director of the local council, acknowledged connections are currently "very poor", with no access available around one mile outside the town, the Somerset County Gazette reported.

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