Five Could Launch Children’s Channel

Five could launch a children’s channel based on its Milkshake pre-school programmes, according to its director of programmes, Ben Gale.

Speaking at the MediaGuardian Edinburgh International Television Festival, Gale said Five had begun a feasibility study into launching a digital channel based on the Milkshake brand, although he added that the service would only launch if likely to be financially feasible.

A report published in July by the research consultancy Perspective, found that the channel’s £6m-a-year investment in kids’ programming gave a £15.6 million boost to the British production sector.

Gale also said that the channel needs to improve its entertainment output, with plans in place to bring this on next year.

July saw Five’s viewing share fall 0.6 percentage points, giving it a total share of 4.6% (see Television Viewing Round-Up – July 2008).

Last week, Five unveiled its autumn line-up, which includes new architecture and property programmes, as well as a new three-part series made called 1968 Unseen (see Five Unveils New Autumn Schedule).

Five: 020 7550 5555 www.five.tv