METROLINK passengers are now able to reach their online destination without delay – after free superfast wi-fi was rolled out on trams.

Passenger can now surf the web for free on all 96 trams, which join the 20 buses running the free city centre Metroshuttle service.

The £1.7 million scheme forms part of Greater Manchester’s ambition to become a top 20 worldwide digital city region.

Councillor Andrew Fender, chairman of the Transport for Greater Manchester committee, said: “Metrolink is not only the largest light rail network in the UK, but now also the first light railway in England to become fully wi-fi capable, symbolising the region’s digital ambitions.

“With over 30 million passenger trips made on Metrolink every year, this will help hundreds of thousands of people make the best use of their travel time with quick and simple access to free wi-fi.”

The move is part of a £7.25m scheme being run by Manchester City Council, Salford City Council and Transport for Greater Manchester, with funding from Broadband Delivery UK - part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Culture Secretary, Sajid Javid, added: “It’s vital that our cities have the digital infrastructure – like superfast broadband and wi-fi – in place to deal with the demands of the digital age.

“Our investment in Manchester and Salford has delivered a welcome boost to the local economy, and is all part of our long term economic plan.”

Metrolink customers must complete a quick registration the first time they use free wi-fi.

Visit metrolink.co.uk/wifi to find out more.