100 days left until digital switch
Date published: 27 July 2009
Today marks 100 days to the digital TV switchover in Oldham, with a free guide going to every household in the borough.
Digital UK is urging viewers to get ready for November 4 when analogue television will start to be turned off.
The not-for-profit company is stepping up its communications campaign with a series of roadshows across Oldham and a detailed 20-page guide to the switchover.
On-screen captions on analogue channels will be seen from today, backed up by TV, press and radio advertising, reminding viewers of the date and their options for going digital.
The Switchover Help Scheme is also contacting those eligible for assistance to convert one TV.
Jo Waters, Digital UK’s Manager for the region, kicked off the countdown at the 1,035ft high Winter Hill transmitter mast at Bolton.
Jo said: “There are just 100 days to prepare for the biggest event in broadcasting since the introduction of colour. We’re urging anyone who is still watching analogue television to make the change now before November 4.
“Anyone who needs advice on switching to digital can visit the Digital UK website, call our helpline on 08456-50 50 50, or join us at the roadshows.”
To continue watching TV through an aerial after switchover, viewers will need to convert their television using a digital box or upgrade to a fully digital model.
Subscription and non-subscription digital TV services are also available via satellite across the North-West, as well as cable from Virgin Media and broadband television from BT Vision and Tiscali.
A postcode checker on the Digital UK website (digitaluk.co.uk) can tell viewers which options are available in their area now and after switchover.
The BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme gives practical help to eligible older and disabled people to make the change to digital. Phone the Help Scheme free on 0800 40 85 906 or visit www.helpscheme.co.uk
