Tomlinson stars in switchover campaign

The Royle Family star Ricky Tomlinson has become involved in a new awareness campaign for digital switchover.

The campaign launches ahead of the switchover which begins in Whitehaven, Cumbria on October 17.

An online video broadcast will be shown on Virgin Media's website, teaching customers about the finer points of the digital switchover. The cable group has also produced a guide called Digital TV Made Simple.

Tomlinson said: "To be honest I was baffled by the whole idea of the digital switchover, but when I realised everything kicks off in October I thought I'd better get my act in gear! The online video explains in a fun way the different options available, giving handy tips and advice to help everyone get their head around it."

According to recent research carried out by Virgin Media one in 10 people have never heard of the digital switchover and two thirds of those who took part in the survey admitted they weren't prepared for the transition.

James Kydd, managing director of marketing at Virgin Media, said: "TV is changing so rapidly, it's not surprising consumers feel unprepared, but now is the perfect time to upgrade to digital and get to grips with the technology in time for the switchover."

Beth Thoren, director of communications at Digital UK, the independent body coordinating switchover, added: "With the first switchover just weeks away, we welcome this entertaining idea from Virgin Media to help increase public awareness about switchover. As a much-loved star, Ricky Tomlinson is the perfect person to reassure those who may be worried about switching and to convey the many benefits of digital television."