Granada TV switch date revealed

The change will coincide with the digital switchover, officials say

The Isle of Man will become part of the ITV Granada news region on 16 July, it has been revealed.

The switch follows a Communications Commission survey asking residents which region's services they would prefer to receive.

Of those questioned, 77% favoured the Granada option after Border's merger with Tyne Tees.

The change will coincide with the island's transmitters switching to digital on the same date.

Adrian Earnshaw MHK, Chairman of the Communications Commission, said: "We welcome the move to Granada in July this year, this is good news for the island.

"The Commission, Tynwald and the great majority of respondents to our consultation agreed that we would be better served by being part of the ITV Granada region due to our close affinity with the North West of England."