THE MARCH of technology means some viewers across Wokingham borough may find their TV signal interrupted.
Mobile network services are currently being upgraded, with the aim of boosting speed, coverage and performance.
But residents are being warned there is a small chance there could be problems with their terrestrial television services, such as Freeview, BT, TalkTalk, and YouView. Sky satellite and Virgin cable viewers won’t be affected.
Symptoms could include intermittent sound, blocky images (pixelation) or the loss of TV signal.
For residents affected by the upgrades, free support is available from Restore TV.
Restore TV is an independent programme created by Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL), an organisation owned by the UK’s four mobile network operators: EE, Virgin Media O2, Three and Vodafone.
Its role is to ensure people can continue to enjoy free-to-view TV if mobile service upgrades cause TV interference.
The programme offers additional support for people who are 75 or older, are registered blind or partially sighted or receive any of the following benefits: personal independence payments (PIPs); attendance allowance; constant attendance allowance or War Pensioner’s Mobility Support.
Ben Roome, CEO of Restore TV, said: “We know just how important TV is to inform, entertain and provide welcome company. Restore TV exists to ensure we all can continue to access free to view TV as mobile services are improved across the country.
“If you see new TV interference, we’re on hand to help you resolve the issue.
“We can send a Restore TV filter, free of charge, for you to fit between your aerial lead and TV or set-top box to remove mobile signals and allow you to watch free to view TV as normal. Full instructions are included, and we can provide further advice online and by phone if needed.
“In most instances, fitting the filter will resolve any issues, but if this isn’t the case, we may also be able to arrange a follow-up visit from a Restore TV engineer at no cost, depending on eligibility.”
Residents are more likely to be affected if they live in an area with weak digital television reception, have a TV signal booster and whose TV aerial is close to a mobile mast.
For residents in flats or communal buildings, Restore TV provides landlords or property managers with support to resolve the problem.
Any viewers who experience new interference to free to view TV should contact Restore TV by calling free on: 0808 13 13 800, or logging on to: https://restoretv.uk/
