ITV to launch HD channel in April

Soccer fans are in for a treat this summer, with ITV launching an ITV1 HD channel on Virgin Media and Sky in April, meaning that almost all World Cup games will be viewable in high definition.

The channel, launching on 2 April, will also be available on Freesat, with other programming including the UEFA Champions League, dramas such as Father & Son and The Prisoner, and entertainment favourite Britain’s Got Talent.

Peter Fincham, ITV director of television, channels and online, said: “The availability of High Definition content is something viewers have come to expect as standard and, as we approach the 2010 World Cup, I’m delighted that we are able to launch our new channel, ITV1 HD, on Virgin Media.

“All of our output will benefit from the stunning picture quality that high definition offers, whether it’s ITV’s original drama, landmark factual shows, entertainment events or our live football.”