Television viewers in Clacton are being warned of possible disruption to Freeview channels caused by next generation mobile phone masts being switched on.

Some 4G signals, which allow mobile broadband, use the same frequency as some Freeview channels if received through an aerial.

This could cause interference with TV sets, such as a loss of sound, blocky images or loss of some or all channels. Free support is being offered by at800, a not-for-profit company set up by mobile phone operators to help people maintain their TV signal when 4G is switched on in their area.

In most cases the problem can be solved by fitting a filter to the TV system, which at800 can provide and install free of charge. Ben Roome, chief executive of at800, said: “New 4G mobile masts are bringing mobile broadband to Clacton, but they do have the potential to disrupt TV reception for some. We’re already helping viewers in the area and continue to offer support. We want to ensure that people know it’s our role to fix any disruption to Freeview due to 4G and that there’s no charge for our support.”

Any viewers who experience new disruption to Freeview should contact at800 on 0333 31 31 800 (included in mobile and landline call packages), 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines, calls from mobiles vary in cost) or at www.at800.tv