The Countryside Alliance is asking people to become phone detectives this summer and help it map real phone reception rates across the UK and is asking people to download the free RootMetrics app onto their smartphone or tablet and use it while they are at home as well as while they are out and about.

Na h-Eileanan and Iar SNP MP, Angus MacNeil has continued to press for better mobile coverage and in 2011, he complied a study of mobile phone signals throughout the main route of the Outer Hebrides.  Mr MacNeil is supportive of the action being taken on the issue of mobile phone reception by The Countryside Alliance.

The app tests the strength of their signal and automatically records the result. It can also be used to check which company provides the best service in an area.

The information will then be used to make the case to phone companies and the Government to improve mobile reception, especially in isolated rural areas.

Mr MacNeil said:

“Everyone pays the same for their phone package but phone reception is very variable and many people are not getting a good deal.   I would hope that Vodafone and Everything Everywhere would at least ensure that the entry and exit points of island transportation were covered with a mobile signal, whether that be through broadband or another means and this should also apply to areas or points where people congregate to shop.

“The Government and phone companies need to take notice of this fact and ensure that no one is missed out from the mobile network.

“I would ask everyone to download the app and make use of it this summer so the Countryside Alliance can have the best possible information to take to the Government and phone companies this autumn.”

For further information on how to use the app and to see results so far, visit www.rootmetrics.com/uk/ or contact Countryside Alliance press officer Charlotte Cooper  on 0207 840 9220.