Switchover begins on October 17

The switchover from analogue to digital terrestrial television will commence on October 17, Ofcom confirmed today. Viewers in Whitehaven (Border region) will see on-screen messages from May advising of the switch; BBC Two analogue will be switched off on October 17; the remaining analogue channels will cease transmissions on November 14. "At least 18" Freeview channels will be available.