The upgrade comes just months before the launch of new, next-generation TV services from the cable company including TV-on-demand and a personal video recorder (PVR).

TV-on-demand will offer digital TV viewers the ability to watch a variety of movies and TV content whenever they want through their existing cable set-top box, simply by using their remote control. The service will also provide the same controls as watching a DVD or video – once a film or programme is ordered, customers can pause, fast forward and rewind.

The new PVR set-top box (See Below) will incorporate a substantial 160GB hard drive and three video tuners, which will allow viewers to receive Telewest Broadband’s digital TV service and record two programmes simultaneously while watching a third. The set-top box will also allow customers to pause and instantly rewind live TV if their viewing is interrupted, so they never have to miss a moment of their favourite programmes again.

Eric Tveter, president and chief operating officer at Telewest Broadband, said: “Customers have been asking us to make our digital TV and broadband internet services available and we’ve been keen to satisfy this demand.

“This year, we’re transforming TV as we know it, by launching a truly on-demand TV service, with DVD functionality. We’re thrilled that residents in Tunbridge Wells will now be able to take advantage of these new services when they launch later this year.”

Telewest Broadband’s digital TV packages start from £5.50 a month, when taken with a phone line and offer up to 120 channels including Sky Sports and Movies. Its award-winning blueyonder broadband internet services start at £17.99 a month and allow users to surf the internet at up to 75 times faster than a traditional dial-up internet connection.