Only 16 channels will become available when the new digital service is launched in November, compared with 55 in more than 90 per cent of areas in the UK.
Jersey television sets will not be able to receive the channels because the Island is not covered by any of the UK’s 80 large transmitters. The Frémont transmitter is among more than 1,000 across the UK which will receive only the minimum number of channels.
The analogue signal will be turned off in the Channel Islands on 17 November as part of the countrywide digital switchover. From that day, those who do not have a satellite dish will have to buy a Freeview digital box. The box, which costs about £25, will enable the viewer to watch digital TV via their aerial using their existing televisions.
Those on certain types of benefits will receive the box and support free. For more information on the switchover, log on to www.digitaluk.co.uk or call 08456 505050.
