Despite the previous announcement that capacity issues would keep ITV's latest digital station ITV3 off the Sky lineup until March next year, speculation is abound tonight that it could be on board from November 1st after all.

The channel has commenced video testing under the ident 'G54' on 10.906V, SR 22.0, FEC 5/6 (to add, select services, 4, 4). So far, the ITV3 testcard has been seen interspersed amongst random programmes including an old Manchester United game and a simulcast of ITV London.

What the testing means is, as-yet, unclear; the channel could launch via Sky on November 1st but remain off the EPG until an agreement with Sky is reached, or an eleventh-hour deal could see a full EPG launch of the channel from day one. Alternatively, the tests may disappear in advance of November.

Keep it with Digital Spy for further updates on this story.