RAIL commuters will spend less time "waiting for connections" — after a free wi-fi scheme was launched at Bolton train station.

Northern Rail, which manages the station, has begun a four-month trial that will offer customers the ability to access free internet when using their smart phones, tablets or laptops while waiting for a train.

Bolton has been chosen as the first station in Northern’s network to try out the scheme. If successful it will be rolled out at other stations across the network.

Signs have been placed on walls and floors at the station to advertise the offer, which is going down well with commuters.

Dominic McConnell, aged 20, is a student at Bolton University and uses the station regularly. He said: “I think its a great idea, it will save my phone battery because using 3G really eats it up.

“I use the train a lot and sadly, like most people, I find myself using my phone for a lot of that time. I will certainly be making the most of the free Wi-Fi and will spread the word.”

Fellow Bolton University student Michael Churm, aged 33, travels between Bolton and Manchester several times a week.

He said: “I think everyone wants to stay in touch and connected at all times these days, so this has got to be a good idea.”

The internet access is being offered in partnership with transport Wi-Fi firm LetsJoin, which, as part of the scheme, will offer commuters free access to their ‘infotainment’ channel which includes news, weather, entertainment and local train running information.

Natalie Loughborough, customer service director at Northern Rail, said: “We keep our customers at the heart of our services and this new trial is evidence of that.

“With more and more of our customers accessing the latest current affairs, social media sites and real-time train running information on the move, we know providing unrestricted free Wi-Fi at our stations is important to them. “

To access the free Wi-Fi at the station, connect to the LetsJoinFREEWiFi network when at the station.

Northern Rail has said it would like to hear feedback on the trials. Customers can get in touch by tweeting to @northernrailorg using the hashtag #NorthernRailWiFi