Countdown to digital switchover is on
Just three months to go until West Berkshire residents will start to lose signal on analogue televisions
THE start of the digital TV switchover in West Berkshire is just three months away and those still watching in analogue are now being advised to get ready for it, or risk being left with a blank screen.
On February 8 next year, viewers who receive their signal from Meridian TV will have will see their analogue signal switched off, and unless they have digital equipment they will not be able to watch television.
The switchover will take place in two stages: on February 8, BBC 2's signal will be switched over, and on February 22, all the other channels will follow.
Digital UK's Regional Manager for Newbury said: “Most people have already made the switch to digital, but we know some people may leave it until the last minute, or may need a little extra advice. We're urging anyone still watching analogue television to make the change now and to contact the Help Scheme if they're eligible for practical support.”
The Switchover Help Scheme – which includes the free conversion of one set, with equipment, installation and aftercare – is available to some elderly or disabled people. For more information on the scheme, contact 0800 40 85 900 or visit helpscheme.co.uk
The switchover will not affect radio transmission; the radio switchover is scheduled for 2015.
Only those parts of Berkshire, including Newbury, which receives its signal from the Hannington transmitter group, will be affected on these dates.
Some on the western edge and in the north of the district may already have made the switch earlier this year.
For more information and to check which area you fall in, visit www.digitaluk.co.uk