Keeping a UK mobile number active

[fer]

Quick question for the assembled masses. Not sure if this was the best forum, but I guess it is a good a place to start as any.

I have the possibility of getting some work abroad for a prolonged period of time. I would like to be able to keep my original mobile number, since it has been the one I have used for the past 10 years or so.

What are my options regarding keeping it active and in use. I do not want to make calls on it, but would want to be able to reuse it if and when I return to the UK. The thought of being able to use it for a voice mail message might be useful.

So, in a nutshell I want a cheap/free alternative to paying monthly rental to T Mobile, as well as keeping the number active if ever I want it back.

Answers on a postcard to the usual address.

TIA,
Chris

[Lois-PIE]

AFAIK you can use it abroad fine but would use the local network on behalf of T-mobile making texts and calls more expensive.

I'd drop T-mobile a line, they may be able to transfer your number to a local network wherever you are heading.

[pdV6]

Switch it to a pre-pay service.

[size13]

Move it to virgin mobile - no minimum topups etc and you can move your number to it