A new wireless internet system will provide high speeds of up to 100 Mbps, it was revealed today.

Bluewave — part of East End Telecom and the East End Group — has carried out successful secret trials of its wi-fi based service and is set to provide its services to its first customers within weeks.

And Bluewave is expected to provide a jobs boost on the island, with extra staff being hired within the next few weeks.

Nick Faries, CEO of East End Group, said: “Bluewave internet will offer high-speed, island-wide wi-fi, a community focused sales approach and deliver top-tier customer service and support.

“By entering the internet sector, Bluewave will usher in much needed competition, system reliability and value for money that will tremendously benefit the Bermudian community.”

The test phase carried out by East End Telecom, best known for two-way radio communications in the security services and commercial sectors, has already seen speeds of 100 Mbps to homes in pilot areas.

Mr Faries said: “We expect to be operational and hiring frontline staff in the next few weeks.”

He added: “When we cannot find a trained Bermudian, our strategy will be to hire a local graduate with the potential to learn the ropes from our international partners and on-island technical experts.

“I want to develop these new Bermudian college and university graduates into the management and technical core of the company.

“Bluewave is going to provide some wonderful opportunities for graduates seeking their first employment opportunity.”

Mr Faries said the new service would be introduced on a neighbourhood by neighbourhood basis, with the company website allowing potential customers to see when their area can join the service.

When connected via the wi-fi network, customers can sign up on online or add their name to a waiting list for their area.

Mr Faries said: “It is anticipated that 95 per cent of the island will have access to Bluewave internet by May this year or before.”