Facing television's new frontier

Andy Burnham visited the Borders to inspect preparations

UK culture and media secretary Andy Burnham has visited the Borders in the run-up to its digital switchover.

He was in the region to ensure that everything was on track for what he described as a "fairly historic day for the country".

Mr Burnham said it was important that the UK was able to gain all the benefits digital TV could offer.

He also reassured viewers that they would have access to at least 20 channels once the switch was completed.

Mr Burnham said the Borders was leading the way for the rest of the UK.

"I just felt I had to come and see for myself," he said.

"We are getting close now to a fairly historic day for the country.

At least 20 channels will be available to everybody including, crucially, the main public service channels Andy Burnham Culture secretary

"It was felt important to be here and hear about preparations and just be sure that everything is on track."

The culture secretary said there were a number of reasons why it was the right time to make the move.

"It is a big step forward for the viewers at home because most people will now be able to get more channels, often in a better quality," he said.

"Essentially it means that we are well prepared as a country to face the future and gain the benefits of the digital age."

He also responded to concerns that people on relay transmitters would not get as many channels as those served by main transmitters.

He said: "At least 20 channels will be available to everybody including, crucially, the main public service channels."