Digital switch hitch! 

Welsh programmes heading for Swindon while transmitter problems solved

 

APRIL FOOL!

 

A major problem with the digital switch-over this week means all BBC TV programmes after midday today will be temporarily in Welsh.

 

A technical error with the new West Region digital transmitter, which was due to go fully live on 07 April, means an emergency signal will now be sourced from BBC Wales channel S4C.

 

 

The unfortunate result being popular TV shows such as BBC News, Eastenders, Bargain Hunt and The One Show will be broadcast in the Welsh language, with English subtitles.

 

"We apologise for this inconvenience," said a BBC spokesman, "but with such a large operation as the switch to digital, problems are bound to occur."

 

"Rest assured from 02 April, normal programming will be resumed."

 

BBC local radio will not be affected.

 

Audience pressure

 

The Welsh language channel S4C recently announced possible job cuts due to low audience numbers.

 

Launched in 1982 and based in Cardiff, S4C broadcasts more than 80 hours of Welsh language programmes on platforms, including television and broadband.

 

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