Thousands of broadband and mobile customers will be hit with bill rises of up to 8.8% in another cost-of-living blow for struggling West of England households.

It comes after the latest inflation data, which is used by many telecoms giants to decide "mid-contract" price rises, was released.

Under current rules, telecom companies are allowed to increase prices mid-contract in line with inflation, plus up to 3.9% extra on top of this.

And with January's retail price index at 4.9% it means thousands will see their bills increase by 8.8%.

Dan Norris is campaigning to end above-inflation, mid-contract rises, making the point customers face being "trapped" between inflation-busting price hikes and punitive exit fees.

He said: "It's outrageous that telecoms firms are cashing in on the cost-of-living crisis - trapping people between inflation-busting price hikes on the one hand, and exorbitant exit fees on the other.

"I'm calling on them to do the right thing and end this unfair practice once and for all."

Research last month from Which found customers on average will see annual price increase of £60 per year - or exit fees that could cost a total exceeding £500.

If residents are out of contract, they do not have to accept any price hikes.

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