NEW 4G mobile services have been switched on in Innerleithen, but residents are being warned it could interfere with their Freeview TV signal.

The new masts recently went live to provide faster access to the internet on smartphones and tablets.

But because 4G signals at 800 MHz sit next to the frequencies used by Freeview, they can overload the receivers in TVs and set-top boxes causing an interference.

This could include, the loss of sound, pictures freezing, or the screen going blank or showing a ‘No Signal’ message.

A free support service is being offered to those affected by at800, a company which was set up under government direction.

Ben Roome, CEO of the organisation, said: "We want to ensure that people know it’s our role to fix Freeview interference caused by 4G at 800 MHz, and that there’s no charge for our service.

"If you rely on Freeview for TV, we can arrange for one of our accredited engineers to visit homes to fix Freeview interference caused by 4G signals, free of charge.

"If you use Freeview alongside other TV services, we can send free filters which block mobile signals that are easy to fit to the aerial lead connecting to TVs and set-top boxes."

Cable and satellite TV, like Sky or Virgin, won’t be affected. 

However, if viewers have cable and satellite TV and also watch Freeview, at800 can provide free filters and advice, but not in-home engineer support.

Residents who live in communal properties should contact at800 and also advise their landlords. The company can provide free filters to landlords but property managers are responsible for the cost of fitting these.

Extra support is also available for people who are aged 75 or over, 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.

Any viewers experiencing problems should contact at800 on 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines and mobiles); or visit www.at800.tv/contact-us