BERWICKSHIRE MP TO HOST SPECIAL DIGITAL SWITCHOVER SURGERY

4.49.47pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 25th Jun 2008

Berwickshire MP Michael Moore will be hosting a special surgery in Duns this Friday, 27 June, where local people can find out what they need to do to prepare for the forthcoming switchover to digital television.

The surgery will be held from 12pm to 5pm in the Volunteer Hall in the town. Experts from Digital UK, the body set up to organise the switchover, will be available to answer questions from local residents. Also present at the event for the first time will be representatives from the Digital Switchover Help Scheme, who will be able to provide information and answer queries from anyone who thinks they might be eligible for assistance under the scheme. This includes anyone aged over 75 and anyone who is registered disabled, blind or partially sighted.

Mr Moore has been leading the charge locally for improved information about the switch to digital and about what help will be available under the Government's assistance scheme. He said:

"I am delighted to be working closely with Digital UK and with the Digital Switchover Help Scheme to host and publicise this special event. We are now less than six months from switchover and it is vital that local people are provided with the information and help they need to prepare for the change. I hope that local residents will take the opportunity to speak directly to the experts involved and have all their questions answered."

Information on how to make the switch from analogue to digital television, including how to ensure that video recorders will work properly after the switch, is also available at Digital UK's website at: www.digitaluk.co.uk or from the telephone helpline on 0845 650 50 50.