A NOTE ON DIGITAL SWITCHOVER
For those of us whose aerials point in a Northly direction (Hannington), Switch over took place on the 8th and completed on 22nd February. If you are not getting a signal please retune your TV (Digital capable TVs only) For those of you whose aerials point in a Southly direction (Rowridge) this will take place on on the 7th and 21st March (the first date being standard digital the second for HD channels) Warning from Trading Standards - Digital Switchover Rogue traders are reportedly cold calling in Leigh Park and the surrounding area of Hampshire claiming residents need to replace their TV aerial in order to receive the digital TV signal. However, most people with a good aerial now, will not need a new aerial for switchover and remember, there is no such thing as a ‘digital aerial’.
Whether you need a new aerial for switchover will depend on the condition of your current aerial and where you live. If you currently have poor reception on your analogue TV, then you may need to replace your aerial at switchover. A small number of households may also need a wideband aerial to receive all the channels available. To find out if this affects you visit www.digitaluk.co.uk/youraerial or call 08456 50 50 50.
Trading Standards would advise consumers not to agree to any work that is instigated as a result of a cold call or via a leaflet drop. If you do need to replace your rooftop aerial, look for a Registered Digital Installer (RDI), who has been trained and security checked. To find an RDI near you visit www.rdi-lb.co.uk or call the Digital UK advice line on 08456 50 50 50. Please note, if you are over 75, disabled or on certain benefits you may be eligible for help from the Switchover Help Scheme. This means you could get one TV set at your home switched to digital for just £40. Those who are entitled to help should have already received a letter and information pack though the post, but to check if you are eligible please visit www.helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900.
And finally, if anyone has any information about traders who are cold calling claiming TV aerials need to be replaced or any other doorstep crime issue they should contact Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Service: Quick Response Team on 01962 833666 (Monday – Friday 0900hrs to 1700hrs) | 
