Make the most of digital TV, council leader urges
By 
Digital Switchover: Information is available from the website by clicking the picture above
Bristol City Council Leader Barbara Janke is urging people to make the most of the digital TV switchover – the first stage of which is scheduled for March 24.
Booking a doctor’s appointment via a TV, finding out local bus information and signing petitions are some of the services Ms Janke highlighted to members of Knowle West Health Association’s Over 50s Group at Filwood Community Centre
Joined by representatives from Digital UK and the Switchover Help Scheme, she said that making the most of the switch to digital TV was vital for the city’s economic success.
Barbara Janke: Digital switch is an important milestone for the city
“The vast majority of households in the city have already switched their main set to digital but it is important that we remind those who haven’t that they still have time,” she said.
“Switchover is an important milestone. Digital TV will provide an easy alternative way for people to access the sort of information and services that are now available on the internet, particularly for those who do not have access to, or feel comfortable using, a computer.
“In some parts of the UK you can already book a GP appointment via your TV, find out local bus information and even sign a petition. Â These are the sorts of services that we want to become common place in Bristol once switchover has taken place.
“As a whole for the city, the move to digital is very important. This year we have established that Bristol is around the fifth most digitally connected city in the UK. Â This is good news for the city because digital infrastructure, skills, jobs and business are essential to the city’s continued success.”
The switchover will take place in two stages on Wednesday, March 24 and Wednesday, April 7. While most areas of Bristol are able to access digital services via their existing aerials, those in areas supplied by the Montpelier transmitter and who do not have cable or satellite services have been unable to access digital transmission.
Bill Taylor, Digital UK’s South West regional manager, said: “Most viewers are ready for swtichover and many are looking forward to getting digital TV for the first time. While the process will be straightforward for most people, inevitably some viewers many need a bit of extra help.”
The vast majority of households will be able to access digital TV with their existing aerials, provided they have a digital-enabled television set or a set-top box.
For more information, access the Digital UK website here or call 08456 50 50 50. Thousands of leaflets have been distributed throughout Bristol libraries as well.
Your Comments