Telewest Appoints New Chief Executive

Cable company, Telewest Communications, has appointed Tony Illsley as its new chief executive.

Telewest’s previous chief executive, Stephen Davidson decided to step down from the company following its takeover of General Cable in April this year (see Telewest Chief Stands Down). Davidson was succeeded, on a temporary basis, by David Van Valkenburg.

Of his appointment, Illsley says: “[Telewest] is now well past a major build phase and has enormous potential as it develops its product and service range and deploys customer focused marketing and communications. The forthcoming digital launch will only expand this potential.”

Telewest has also entered an agreement with Comcast and NTL to buy Comcast’s 27.5% stake in Birmingham Cable for £125 million (see Telewest To Buy Birmingham And London Cable Franchises). Telewest had preemptive rights to the stake in Birmingham Cable when Comcast was acquired by NTL in March (see Telewest To Buy Birmingham And London Cable Franchises). Telewest has the same rights to London Cable, which it also co-owns with Comcast. By 30 September 1999, Comcast will either set a price for Telewest to buy Cable London or Comcast/NTL will acquire Telewest’s stake to become the sole owner.

Telewest: 01483 750 900