ITV Gains Complete Ownership Of ITV News Channel
ITV has completed its takeover of the recently rebranded ITV News Channel with the acquisition of NTL’s 35% stake in the rolling news operation.
The channel currently enjoys an average audience of 2.4 million viewers every week and features a range of high-profile presenters including Mark Austin, Mary Nightingale, Alastair Stewart and Angela Rippon.
The channel, available through the BSkyB, cable and Freeview platforms, has seen a steady increase in viewing figures over the last few years. This has been attributed to its coverage of several key events including Harold Shipman’s suicide, the release of the British detainees in Guantanamo Bay and the resignation of Beverley Hughes.
The channel has recently enjoyed a facelift with the installation of lavish virtual reality sets and high-tech graphics systems. It has also benefited from added investment, which will fund a move away from rolling bulletins to concentrate more on live items, interviews and breaking news presented by anchors in regular slots.
Clive Jones, chief executive of the ITV News Group, said: “Gaining total control of the ITV News Channel is a further demonstration of ITV’s commitment to news. ITV News Channel has already established itself as a real alternative to the other 24-hour news services, offering the same high production values associated with ITV News.”
Mick Desmond, chief executive of ITV Broadcasting added: “This is another step forward for ITV’s family of channels. ITV1 is strongly leading the way, ITV2 is the fastest growing UK channel and now our 24-hour ITV News Channel is reaping the benefits of cross-promotion and access to high-quality resources.”
ITV has previously attempted to buy out the remaining share in news and information company, ITN, a move which was initially blocked by the government, but is now possible due to a last minute change to the Communications Bill. ITV was initially allowed only a 40% stake in ITN but is now free to acquire the remaining 60% from United Business Media, Reuters and the Daily Mail & General Trust (see ITV Partners Cleared To Take Full Control Of ITN).
ITV: 020 7843 8000 www.itv.com
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