A MOBILE telephone network is providing free mobile internet access to help seafarers in Poole stay in touch with their friends and family.

The port is one of 32 mobile WiFi hotspots provided by Three UK as part of a scheme run in collaboration with the Merchant Navy Welfare Board.

It means seamen visiting Poole can connect with their loved ones via Facebook, Skype, Twitter, email and other internet tools. Each MiFi device, which provides internet access for up to five phones at a time, will be loaded with 15GB of data a month, enough to make 1,500 10-minute Skype calls a month or send 75,000 emails.

The charity’s port welfare manager, Carolyn Lewis, said: “Working at sea can be very dangerous and isolating. Many contracts will last a minimum of six months and seafarers are expected to work long hours, seven days a week.

“Many seafarers visiting UK ports have smartphones but no connectivity while at sea. When on land, international roaming can be very expensive. With this initiative, ship welfare visitors are able to help seafarers get connected and keep in touch with their families and friends even if they’re only in port for a few hours.”