Mobile network service upgrades in Maldon have caused some residents to experience new TV interference.

The network service upgrades will largely boost speed, performance and coverage in Maldon, but some residents have experienced problems with their TV's as a result.

Residents using Freeview, BT, TalkTalk and YouView who may have experienced intermittent sound, blocky images, or loss of TV signal, can now find free support from Restore TV.

Restore TV, an independent programme owned by the UK's four mobile network operators, aims to ensure people can continue to enjoy free to view TV if mobile service upgrades cause TV interference. 

Restore TV reports to the Coexistence Technical Working Group, chaired by Ofcom, which monitors and advises on the programme to ensure free to view TV viewers' interest are properly served.

The programme offers additional support for people who are 75 years of age or older, are 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.

Ben Roome, CEO of Restore TV, said: "We know just how important TV is to inform, entertain and provide welcome company. Restore TV exists to ensure we all can continue to access free to view TV as mobile services are improved across the country.

"If you see new TV interference, we're on hand to help you resolve the issue. We can send a Restore TV filter, free of charge, for you to fit between your aerial lead and TV or set-top box to remove mobile signals and allow you to watch free to view TV as normal. Full instructions are included, and we can provide further advice online and by phone if needed.

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"In most instances, fitting the filter will resolve any issues, but if this isn't the case, we may also be able to arrange a follow-up visit from a Restore TV engineer at no cost, depending on eligibility."

Cable and satellite TV, such as Sky or Virgin, are not affected. However, viewers with these services, who also watch free to view TV through an aerial, can receive a free Restore TV filter.

Residents are more likely to be affected if they live in an area with weak digital television reception, have a TV signal booster and whose TV aerial is close to a mobile mast.

For residents in flats or communal buildings, Restore TV provides landlords or property managers with support to resolve the problem.

Any readers who have experienced new interference to free to view TV should contact Restore TV on: 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines and mobiles), or on the Restore TV Website.