HOMEOWNERS in parts of Blackburn could lose Channel 4 reception unless they have their television sets re-tuned.

Around 2,500 homes in the Queens Park area of town have been affected by signalling problems following the switch to the new Winter Hill transmitter. All affected homes are entitled to a free aerial installation and re-tune.

Donna Oaks from Oakview Aerials explained: "Although the signal interruption is caused by the new Winter Hill transmitter for Channel 5 it is actually affecting Channel 4. "It means that a lot of homes need more powerful aerials and a re-tune."

Affected homes will see a logo saying "Channel 4 is being transmitted to a new frequency in this area. For free assistance and information ring freephone 0800 055 500".

Donna added: "There will be a test switch off next week and the signal will go off completely during the last week of October.

"It is up to people to ring the freephone number and get the free aerial installed or else they could lose Channel 4."

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