Digital age dawns in North Devon

THE final stage of digital TV switchover in North Devon is on course to complete today, (Wednesday), extending digital terrestrial television (Freeview) coverage to all households served by the Huntshaw Cross transmitter group. All terrestrial TV signals

THE final stage of digital TV switchover in North Devon is on course to complete today, (Wednesday), extending digital terrestrial television (Freeview) coverage to all households served by the Huntshaw Cross transmitter group.

All terrestrial TV signals were turned off shortly after midnight and a team of engineers worked through the night on the switch to all-digital TV services. Analogue services will remain switched off permanently, allowing Freeview channels to be broadcast from 14 local relay transmitters serving areas such as Barnstaple, Braunton and Westwood Ho! for the first time.

When the transition is completed by late afternoon, Freeview, BT Vision and Top Up TV equipment should be retuned in order to receive all the channels available.

Digital UK, the independent body leading switchover, continues to provide support through local advice points, its website (digitaluk.co.uk) and helpline (08456 50 50 50). A switchover roadshow is also running today in Barnstaple.

The Switchover Help Scheme is still welcoming applications from eligible older and disabled people to get help to convert one television - including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare.