Calls for Pembrokeshire to do all it can to capitalise on new 4G mobile technology have received a good reception.

Dinas Cross Councillor Bob Kilmister made the plea to the county council’s economy overview and scrutiny meeting, adding the issue was “absolutely critical for tourism and the very large rural population of Pembrokeshire.”

4G is the fourth, superfast generation of mobile broadband and members heard a test relating to the new technology was undertaken in the Preseli mountains in 2010, with positive results.

Cllr Kilmister said he did not receive mobile telephone signal at home unless he leant out of a window and the Gwaun Valley did not have any coverage at all, while the hub town of Fishguard did not have 3G signal.

He said residents in rural areas also had “dreadful” broadband provision.

“4G gives a real opportunity we can give them an excellent service,” he added.

He said that fibre optic broadband would not be economic in rural areas, and feared these areas would be in the 2% of Wales not covered by the Welsh Government’s plans.

He added: “4G has to happen or this is going to remain a rural backwater.”

Councillors agreed to continue engaging with relevant authorities, the Welsh Government and providers to lobby for improvements to provide a better service for Pembrokeshire residents, businesses and visitors.