Shortly after midnight, analogue BBC One, ITV1, Channel 4 and Five were turned off permanently enabling extra digital channels to be broadcast from 61 local relay transmitters serving thousands of homes.
The changes also affect existing Freeview viewers who may find some of their channels missing this morning. The services have moved to new frequencies and can be restored by retuning Freeview TVs and boxes.1 After retuning, some viewers may find they can recieve services from both England and Wales. Advice on choosing preferred channels is available from Digital UK.
Both Digital UK, which has co-ordinated the switch, and the Switchover Help Scheme are today running advice points and roadshows to provide support for viewers who need it. The Help Scheme is still open to applications from older and disabled viewers who may qualify for help including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare.2 The Help Scheme remains open to applications until 7 May.
Bill Taylor, Digital UK’s Regional Manager for the South West, said: “This is an historic day for TV in the West region as we say goodbye to the old analogue system forever. Viewers have responded extremely well and many are enjoying the benefits of digital TV for the first time.
“As with any change on this scale, some people may need a bit of extra help so we and the Help Scheme are on hand to give advice and assistance to those who may need it.”
Digital UK is providing support through local advice points, its website (digitaluk.co.uk) and an advice line (08456 50 50 50). A list of advice points is available at digitaluk.co.uk/westadvicepoints. Switchover roadshows are also running today at the following locations between 9am and 5pm:
- The Podium, Bristol
- Stall Street, Bath
- Wharf Green, Swindon
- High Street, Weston-Super-Mare
- Fore Street, Taunton
Ends
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