SOME 12 months ago I had a major breakdown with my television and so after discussing the 'pros and cons' with dealers as to whether to buy a new set it transpired that until the future was a little clearer it was pointless having some model with facilities which could not be received.
So the current set is rented, it has a 'wraparound' sound system but the picture leaves something to be desired!
I have discussed this problem with other people on the perimeter of Okehampton and the choice seems to be that you have to subscribe some £40 per month to a rival Service (B Sky B) to get round it or put up with a 'grainy' picture.
I have always felt sorry for those suffering from limited vision in that they are expected to pay the full fee, but I am in a
similar predicament.
When I got through to the department at the BBC dealing with reception I was curtly told that it was not their concern as whilst I had a set, nowhere in the agreement did they promise to provide a picture in every location, but I was still legally required to have a licence.
What a farce, I am therefore paying money to an organisation that do not provide a proper service but not giving anything to the other 'free to view' channel. Furthermore in a letter from the director General (Greg Dyke) I learn that advice given to him was that 3G services (Mobile phones) take a higher priority and if I do not agree then I should contact BBC Reception in Glasgow for a further explanation.
Derek Godfrey-Brown
Larkbeare
Okehampton