Virgin Media, the new company formed of Virgin Mobile and Ntl:Telewest which launches next month, has already begun writing to customers and informing them of what changes will be made to their service.

According to previously reliable sources, a letter from Sir Richard Branson, including information about Virgin Media, will be received by customers shortly.

A website, www.knowfirst.co.uk, has also been created which details information about the changes.

The new website mentions a new email system with Virgin Media. Ntl:telewest/Virgin.net customers will have the choice whether or not to change their email address to a new VirginMedia.com one.

Roll-out of new electronic programme guide software is expected to begin on the launch day, February 14, named ‘V-Day’ by the new company.

Media Week also reported this week that Sky is now "upping the ante" even more by threatening to pull some of its channels off the Ntl:Telewest digital TV platform, in a row over carriage fees. Apparently, BSkyB bosses have instructed negotiators to "take off their gloves" when it comes to dealing with the new company.