First UK Town prepares for Digital Switch.

The People in charge of this change want to make it clear to the people of Whitehaven of what they have to do with this change. They have put lots of visual evidence up to inform the residents of the change. This change has caused mixed reviews though. Many people in from Whitehaven are proud to be the town that tests this change and hope it will put the town on the map. Many people have rushed into electrical stores to upgrade to Freeview, Satellite, Cable or broadband to enable them to watch TV. Electrical store Curys state that this is the biggest purchase rush they have seen outside the Christmas period.

There are still 6,000 households yet to upgrade their systems and 2,000 of these households plan to wait until the change has occurred before they switch over. The older generations also express a concern for the change and the new equipment they need. The organisers have stated that over 75's will receive new equipment, installation and support. People with significant disabilities and blind people will also receive help. Assistance with the change over will cost 40 but is free for pensioners, job seekers and people on income support.

This change will start an exciting future for digital access. Whitehaven will be the first to test and experience the digital switch and it open up so many more opportunities for small screen entertainment.