THE second switch-over in the south began today (Wednesday, February 29), with analogue signals turned off across much of West Sussex and digital TV boosted.
The switch means some analogue channels will no longer work from today and digital “blackspots” like Haslemere and Steyning will be able to get BBC Freeview channels for the first time.
Residents already watching Freeview will need to re-tune their televisions and boxes to regain BBC services missing this morning.
The switch began in the early hours of today when analogue BBC Two was permanently turned off at the Midhurst transmitter group.
The process will be completed on Wednesday, March 14, when the remaining analogue channels will be switched off.
Further Freeview channels from ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 will then be available from local transmitters for the first time.
Bill Taylor, regional manager for Digital UK, said this morning: “This is great news for West Sussex, as many people are receiving new channels for the first time.
“Those viewers who haven’t switched to digital should prepare for March 14, when the last analogue channels will be permanently switched off.
“Our advice is: get ready now – don’t leave it until the last minute.”
Eligible older and disabled people can still apply for help to convert one television, including a choice of equipment, installation and after-care.
For those who have already signed up, the help scheme call centre is available on 0800 4085900.
A switch-over road show is running today and tomorrow in Horsham town centre.
An advice point is at Midhurst Resource Centre, in St Ann’s Hill, Midhurst, today.
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