British TV back?

Clients of Telmicro were surprised this week to find that their screens, which have remained blank for months, now have a picture on them.

Twelve channels are available in the majority of areas, including ITV, ITV2, ITV3, BBC news and CBBC. There is also an information channel announcing, “Welcome to Simulsat TV - For information please wait for a few days.” The notice goes on to inform clients that viewing will be free of charge during the ‘Test Transmission’ period up until the 31st December, with normal programming commencing from this date.

Sadly, both the picture and sound quality are poor in the majority of areas

Speculation on local discussion forums suggests that this is merely an opportunist who has captured a crossover signal from another broadcaster as a short term money making scheme, which will be scrambled once again as soon as encryption is introduced.

This is not Telmicro back in business because their previous broadcasting outlets are still deserted, with no antennas or equipment to be seen. It would appear that Simulsat is a Spanish company which is based in Santa Pola, and is registered in the name of Gines Garcia Martinez of Santa Pola TV.

There is still confusion over the rebroadcasting of British channels. A section of registered Digital Television companies have warned that viewers should take advantage of the free viewing whilst it lasts. Authorities are still investigating the act of rebroadcasting.

The only reliable way to get British television in Spain is to install a satellite dish, either as a community or as an individual. Looking round Villas Andrea, this is the solution that many have now gone for.