B4RN (Broadband for the Rural North) has been appointed the Internet Hero at the 14th annual ISPA (Internet Service Provider Association) awards for bringing high speed fibre-optic broadband to rural communities, and setting an example for other projects to follow. The ITU has been awarded the Internet villain award for its Internet governance policies which might lead to a less open and free Internet.
In total, ISPA announced the winners in 14 categories at the star studded ceremony located in the Park Lane Sheraton Hotel. Keynote speakers at the event included Dr Peter Cochrane, former CTO at BT, who has been very outspoken on the BT Groups focus on FTTC in its fibre roll-outs, and social media expert Tom Scott.
"ISPA would like to congratulate all the winners and thank all the attendees and sponsors for making the evening possible. It's been another important and fast-moving 12 months for the internet industry, and the Awards are a good measure of achievement and innovation in the past year."
Nicholas Lansman, ISPA Secretary General
For the winners in each category, see the table below.
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| Best Consumer Fixed Broadband | Plusnet |
| Best Business Fixed Broadband | Fluidata |
| Best Consumer Customer Service | Catalyst2 |
| Best Business Customer Service | KC Business |
| Best SME Business Hosting | Netcetera |
| Best Large Business Hosting | Fidonet |
| Best New ISP | Hyperoptic |
| Internet Safety & Security | TalkTalk |
| Best Internet Telephony | iNet Telecoms (Voipfone) |
| Best Managed Service Innovation | Fluidata |
| Digital Inclusion (in association with Go ON UK) | Mersey Travel |
| Customer Choice | MacAce |
| Internet Hero | Broadband for the Rural North (B4RN) |
| Internet Villain | International Telecommunications Union (ITU) |
staff member)
11 months ago
Wonder if someone from the ITU will come along and pick up their "award" ?