Stage one of UK switchover completed

Friday, November 7th, 2008
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All of Scottish Borders has a digital signal for the first time

The first stage of digital TV switchover was completed in Scottish Borders today at 1005 and the technical process ran smoothly, Digital UK has confirmed.

Analogue BBC Two has been permanently turned off, and the full range of BBC channels is now being broadcast in digital from every TV transmitter in Scottish Borders. Previously, only the main Selkirk transmitter broadcast these digital channels to the area. Freeview viewers should now retune their boxes.

The remaining analogue TV services (BBC One, ITV1, Channel 4 and Five) will be permanently turned off when the switchover process is completed on 20 November. On this date, further Freeview channels from ITV, Channel 4 and Five will also become available from relay transmitters for the first time. Virtually all households in Scottish Borders will then be able to receive a Freeview signal.

Digital UK, the body in charge of switchover, continues to provide support through local advice points, as well as its website and helpline (08456 50 50 50). A switchover roadshow is also running today in Galashiels.

John Askew, Border Regional Manager for Digital UK, said this morning: “Scottish Borders switchover is now fully underway, and many people are receiving Freeview channels for the first time.

“We’re now encouraging viewers who still don’t have the necessary equipment to get ready in time for 20 November, when all the analogue channels will be permanently switched off. Anyone who needs advice during this period should contact Digital UK on 08456 50 50 50.”