MUMBAI: More than a million TV sets risk going blank when the London region goes digital in a week‘s time, Digital UK has warned.
With just seven days remaining until analogue TV starts being turned off, more than one in ten households still have a television relying on the old signal – accounting for more than a million TVs in the region.
However, the vast majority are now prepared for digital switchover, which is set to be the biggest change to television in the UK capital for a generation.
Analogue BBC Two will close across the London region on 4 April, followed by all remaining analogue channels on 18 April. Viewers must ensure all their TVs can receive either Freeview, cable or satellite channels, and Freeview viewers need to retune their equipment on both dates.
As part of the change, Freeview coverage will be boosted to reach more than 400,000 viewers who cannot receive it now, putting an end to digital blackspots across the region.
Digital UK, the body in charge of the process, is launching the final stage of an information campaign to ensure people are aware of the change, including large warning messages broadcast on analogue TV channels. The body is also offering face-to-face advice through local roadshows and advice points next week.
Digital UK London Manager Deborah Bain said, "We know from elsewhere in the country that some people leave it very late to prepare for switchover. Almost any set can be converted to digital, even black and white ones, so now is the time to get ready. Most people will find the process straightforward, but some may need a bit of extra help, so we will provide advice and assistance throughout the switchover period."
