3 Months To Digital Switchover in Reading

8 November 2011, 05:00

There's three months to go until Berkshire and North Hampshire need to make the digital switchover.

Roadshows are launching across the Meridian TV region and a detailed 20-page guide to switchover is being sent to every household.

On-screen messages on analogue channels will resume next week.

Latest research indicates that most viewers are well prepared, with nine out of ten households already having made the switch to digital TV.

Those still watching in analogue are now being advised to get ready for switchover – when Freeview coverage will be boosted to reach virtually all homes – or risk being left with a blank screen.

The Switchover Help Scheme (helpscheme.co.uk) is continuing to write to eligible older and disabled people, reminding them of the assistance on offer to convert one TV set to digital, including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare.

The help is available for those aged 75 and over; or who are eligible for certain disability benefits; or registered blind or partially sighted; or living in care homes.

Bill Taylor, Digital UK’s Regional Manager for the area, said:

"Reading is on the borderlands of two different TV transmitter regions. If your home receives a signal from the Hannington transmitter, digital switchover begins on 8th February next year.

"If your signal comes from Crystal Palace, the start date is 4th April. To check, visit Digital UK’s website (www.digitaluk.co.uk) or call our advice line on 08456 50 50 50.

"Next year, thousands of homes in and around Reading will be able to receive Freeview digital television for the first time. If you are still watching analogue, convert your TV to digital or you will lose channels.

"If you have Freeview, BT Vision or Top Up TV you must take a few moments to re-tune your equipment. But if you are watching satellite or cable TV you won’t need to do anything."