North-east begins digital switchover

The switchover to all-digital TV has begun in north-east England, meaning Freeview households will need to retune their set-top boxes today (September 12th 2012).

Last night, the analogue version of BBC Two was deactivated at transmitters across the region as part of a process that will improve the Freeview service received by local homes.

As a result, thousands of properties currently stuck in digital blackspots will soon be able to access Freeview channels from the BBC for the first time. Many existing viewers will also see an improvement in their picture quality.

The remaining analogue services are set to be switched off on September 26th, completing the process in the north-east, which is one of only two UK regions yet to make the move to all-digital TV.

Northern Ireland, the last remaining region, is due to begin its own switchover on October 10th.

John Askew, Digital UK regional manager for the north-east, said: "This is great news for viewers across the north-east, as many people are receiving new channels for the first time.

"Those viewers who haven't switched to digital should prepare for September 26th, when the last analogue channels will be permanently switched off."