Help for those not ready for the digital switchover

Mark Ryder, head of Warwickshire Trading Standards, said: “A large scale public education campaign to raise awareness of the digital switchover has been running for some years, but there may still be people across Warwickshire who are unaware that in August and September they will begin to lose their analogue tv reception.

“This is why we are issuing this timely reminder that there is free expert help and advice available, should people need it, from Digital UK.”

The switchover began in Stratford on April 6 and continued with Nuneaton and Bedworth from August 17 and Warwick district, Rugby, north Warwickshire and Coventry from September 7.

If they have not already done so, most viewers should be able to convert or upgrade their television equipment to receive a digital signal with a set top digital box for £20 to £30.

However, some residents may find they then need a new rooftop aerial, costing £60 to £180.

But there is a help scheme for those aged over 75 or registered blind as well as those who may be in receipt of certain disability benefits.

Before calling in a trader viewers are advised to visit www.digitaluk.co.uk or ring: 08456 505050.