Upgrades to mobile networks in Pudsey could cause interference to TV received through an aerial such as Freeview, BT, TalkTalk and YouView, a national organisation has warned.
Improvements are currently being implemented in Pudsey, and symptoms could include intermittent sound, blocky images (pixelation) or loss of TV signal.
For residents who are 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.
Restore TV’s role is to ensure people can continue to enjoy free to view TV if mobile service upgrades cause TV interference. Restore TV reports to the Coexistence Technical Working Group, chaired by Ofcom, which monitors and advises on the programme to ensure free to view TV viewers’ interest are properly served.
The programme offers additional support for people who are 75 years of age 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.”
Cable and satellite TV, such as Sky or Virgin, are not affected. However, viewers with these services, who also watch free to view TV through an aerial, can receive a free Restore TV filter.
Any viewers who experience new interference to free to view TV should contact Restore TV on:
· 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines and mobiles)
Do we know what the work to the mobile phone network is? Having previously had perfect mobile signal throughout my house (a street off Richardshaw Road), for the last 18 months I have only been able to get signal if I sit in one specific spot and try not to move an inch! Thankfully still have a landline and use video calls where possible, but miss countless mobile calls. I’ve struggled to get an answer from the O2 network about what the issue is and when they intend to fix it. Is this some phone mast work planned?