ITV Digital subscribers today woke up to a seriously reduced service as administrators took the stricken broadcaster's pay-TV channels off air.

Around 20 channels, including MTV and UK Gold, were pulled at 7am today, leaving viewers with just 12 free-to-air digital channels such as BBC 24, BBC Four, BBC Choice and ITV 2.

An on-screen message read: "We regret to advise that until further notice ITV Digital is unable to continue providing pay television services to its customers with effect from 7am, May 1 2002."

The message added: "ITV Digital plc (in administration) apologises for any inconvenience as a result of the termination of pay television services."

There was one piece of good news for viewers.

As part of the shake-up, ITV Sport, one of the pay channels, has been redesignated a free-to-air channel, allowing subscribers to watch the Football League play-offs for free.

More than 1,000 jobs are at risk following the decision by administrators Deloitte & Touche to pull the plug on the pay-TV services.

It said it regretted cutting the service but added: "Unfortunately there is no appetite in the market for a preservation of the business as a going concern."

ITV Digital was put into administration in March after failing to reach settlement with the Football League over outstanding payments on a £315 million deal to show matches.

Several League clubs could be threatened with closure if they do not receive the money they were promised under the original contract.

The Independent Television Commission is seeking a new operator for the licences ITV Digital operated.