Drone show at Tamworth Castle to mark the broadband evolution

Domestic Broadband launched in the UK, 25 years ago in 2000. While Asymmetric Digital Subscriber line (ADSL) and dial up launched in the 90s*, it was when Broadband became available to homeowners in 2000, that things really began to change.

LightSpeed, the leading ultrafast broadband provider, was behind the done show which was set against the stunning backdrop of Tamworth Castle, a historical landmark built in 1070. The sight of a cutting-edge drone show, to mark a quarter-century of progress in the digital world, coupled with the timeless presence of the castle grounds, made for a perfect juxtaposition of modern technology and centuries old history.

Brett Shepherd, CEO of LightSpeed, reflected on the significance of the occasion: “When Broadband launched to consumers, it was life changing that we could now simultaneously use the internet and make phone calls through a single line. Looking at the last 25 years, it is incredible how far we’ve come. Broadband has transformed every aspect of our lives, forever changing how we live, work, connect, play and relax. This is just the beginning – broadband continues to evolve and shape the future in ways we never thought possible.

“Hosting the drone show is a fitting tribute to mark a quarter-century of progress in the digital world, all while paying homage to a landmark that has stood the test of time. It also marks us being the first altnet company (alternative network to larger providers) to bring full fibre broadband to homes and businesses in Tamworth.”

Broadband has revolutionised how we interact in the world. From the days of dial-up, to today’s always-on internet that keep us connected while we work from home, stream our favourite TV shows, game on the go, or manage our smart homes, broadband has reshaped our lives. Multiple devices can now be connected to the internet simultaneously, allowing for seamless streaming, gaming, and even controlling home security and charging electric cars.

Brett reflected on the future of broadband: “Broadband is an essential utility, on par with water, gas, and electricity. In today’s world we simply cannot live without it. With the planned retirement of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) copper network set to be fully switched off by the 31st January 2027, it’s vital that homes and businesses are future proofed.

“LightSpeed is excited about the future - with faster full fibre speeds and greater bandwidth requirements on the horizon, we’re opening up endless possibilities for smarter homes, increased productivity, and more immersive digital experiences.”

Award-winning LightSpeed is bringing its full fibre broadband up to 36,000 homes and businesses in Tamworth and other parts of the UK. With lightning-fast speed of up to 2 Gigabits per second, LightSpeed is spearheading the gigabit revolution ensuring towns that have been left behind for far too long, are being offered the best services around, as well as paving the way for the smart homes of the future.