ITV2 and its one-hour timeshift sibling are to begin broadcasting 24 hours a day on March 17, it was announced today.

As part of the changes, ITV2+1 will swap slots on Sky's electronic programme guide with Men & Motors, resulting in the timeshift channel making a significant jump from channel 184 to 131.

GMTV2 programming, including the Action Stations kids' TV strand, will move from ITV2 to ITV4. Action Stations will continue to be simulcast on CiTV.

"ITV2 is the number one digital channel in the UK and is more than ready to broadcast 24 hours a day 7 days a week," said Jonathan Rogers, director of operations at ITV's channels division. "These moves are designed to maximise the ongoing success of ITV’s portfolio digital of channels."