TELEVISION signals in parts of Harpenden and Wheathampstead will switch over to digital this March.

The existing analogue television is being turned off and to keep a service residents will need to convert their TVs to digital before the switchover date.

Harpenden residents who currently receive a television signal through the Sandy Heath transmitter in the Anglia TV region need to prepare for digital switchover as their analogue signal will be switched off in two stages beginning on March 30 and ending on April 13.

All residents with a Freeview TV or box, BT Vision or Top Up TV will need to re-tune at both stages of the switchover to keep receiving channels and services. Satellite and cable services such as Sky, Freesat and Virgin Media are not affected by switchover.

Harpenden residents using Crystal Palace and Hemel Hempstead transmitters in the London TV region will not have to deal with digital switchover until 2012.

Residents can check when they will be affected on the website for Digital UK, the organisation leading switchover in the UK at www.digitaluk.co.uk/home or by calling the helpline number 08456 505 050.

For support call the switchover help scheme for free on 0800 408 5900 or send an e-mail to info@helpscheme.co.uk