TODAY is the day the digital television revolution will roll out across Hampshire.

It has been billed as the biggest change to broadcasting since the introduction of colour in the late 1960s.

In the early hours of this morning analogue BBC2 was turned off for good at the Rowridge transmitter on the Isle of Wight.

Residents are being warned that if they do not prepare their sets by the end of the day they could face a black screen when they come to tune into their favourite BBC2 shows like Top Gear and Eggheads.

The switchover will take place in two stages with the remaining analogue channels being turned off for good on March 21.

The move will see analogue signals replaced with new digital services.

Viewers will still be able to watch the five terrestrial channels, but will also be able to watch up to 50 more through Freeview.

Virtually any TV, including black and white sets, can be converted using a digital box, available from most electrical stores for as little as £20.

Those who already have access to digital television are being told to retune their boxes today and on March 21.