Oxford wakes to a digital dawn
Switchover complete, Freeview viewers must retune
All analogue TV channels in Oxfordshire, parts of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire were switched off for good today, signalling the dawn of an all-digital era for more than 415,000 households.
Analogue BBC One, ITV1, Channel 4 and Channel 5 were turned off permanently last night at the Oxford transmitter group, enabling extra channels to be broadcast from five 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.
Viewers in some areas may also find their digital TVs or boxes load more than one regional service. Advice on prioritising the preferred regional service is available from Digital UK.
Digital UK, which has co-ordinated the switch, and the Switchover Help Scheme are today running advice points and a roadshow 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.
Peter Monteith, Digital UK‟s Regional Manager in Central, said: “This is an historic day for TV 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.”
The Switchover Help Scheme remains open to applications until 28 October 2011.
Digital UK is providing support through local advice points, its website digitaluk.co.uk and an advice line (08456 50 50 50). Switchover road shows are also running today and tomorrow from 9am until 5pm in Oxford, Swindon and Banbury.
