The Asia Television Network (ATN) has launched on Sky Digital.

As previously reported, the channel was added to EPG 827 yesterday, broadcasting in 'soft launch' mode. A full launch is expected in January.

"Our aim is that ATN will become the premier South Asian global broadcasting and media organisation by providing entertainment, information and education for our community," said Harish Joshi, ATN CEO.

Meanwhile, the network announced a deal which will see it pool its distribution and marketing resources with BEN, a channel aimed at the Afro Carribean community.

"We believe that this is an excellent partnership between two free to air channels that will bring our communities closer together," Joshi added. "This partnership shows the extent to which our two diverse channels are willing to work hand in hand to cater for the ethnic communities that we live in."