Switchover complete, Freeview viewers must retune
digitaluk press release, 24 august 2011
All analogue TV channels in Sheffield and Chesterfield were switched off for good today, signalling the dawn of an all-digital era for more than 153,000 households.
Analogue BBC One, ITV1, Channel 4 and Channel 5 were turned off permanently last night at the Sheffield and Chesterfield transmitter groups, enabling extra Freeview channels to be broadcast from local relay transmitters serving thousands of homes.
The changes also affect existing Freeview viewers who will 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.
Homes watching the main Sheffield transmitter will need to retune again on 27 September to continue receiving all available channels.
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.
John Askew, Digital UKs Regional Manager in Yorkshire, said: This is an historic day for TV in Sheffield and Chesterfield 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.
Digital UK is providing support through local advice points, its website (digitaluk.co.uk) and an advice line (08456 50 50 50). A switchover roadshow is also running today and tomorrow in Barkers Pool, Sheffield and Chesterfield Market.
