Digital switchover starts

The biggest change to television in a generation began today, as analogue signals were turned off across much of West Sussex and digital TV boosted to reach all areas.
By The Newsroom
Published 29th Feb 2012, 08:48 BST

The start of TV switchover means that thousands of viewers in digital blackspots like Haslemere, Steyning and Horsham can now get BBC Freeview channels for the first time, while picture quality will improve for many existing viewers.

Homes already watching Freeview will need to retune their TVs and boxes in order to regain their BBC services, which are missing this morning.

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Switchover began in the early hours when analogue BBC Two was permanently turned off at the Midhurst transmitter group.

The process will be completed on March 14, when the remaining analogue channels will be switched off.

Further Freeview channels from ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 will then be available from local transmitters for the first time.

The Switchover Help Scheme is still welcoming applications from eligible older and disabled people to get help to convert one television, including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare. For those who have already signed up, the Help Scheme call centre is available to help with any problems and can be contacted on 0800 40 85 900.

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Bill Taylor, Regional Manager for Digital UK, said this morning: “This is great news for West Sussex, as many people are receiving new channels for the first time.

“Those viewers who haven’t switched to digital should prepare for 14 March, when the last analogue channels will be permanently switched off. Our advice is: get ready now – don’t leave it until the last minute.”

Digital UK, the body leading switchover, continues to provide support through its website and advice line. A switchover roadshow is running today and tomorrow in Horsham town centre, and an advice point is at Midhurst Resource Centre on St Ann’s Hill.

Related topics:BBCChannel 5Channel 4