September launch for BBC Gaelic

The BBC's new Gaelic-language television channel will launch on September 19 and include weekly delayed coverage of a Scottish Premier League match.

The service was approved by the BBC Trust in January, despite criticism from some for being a waste of money.

A statement from the Clydesdale Bank SPL this week said: "The new digital channel is a joint venture between MG ALBA and the BBC and will be launched in September."

Under conditions agreed with the Trust, BBC Gaelic will initially be broadcast on satellite and cable and potentially on Freeview when the digital switchover is complete.

Independent company MNE Media will produce as-live coverage of one game each Saturday to be aired about three hours after it has ended. The deal is in addition to the SPL matches broadcast live by Setanta Sports and on demand by BT Vision.

SPL executive chairman Lex Gold said: "This is an interesting initiative and one that we hope will help make the new BBC digital channel attractive to viewers. TV coverage of this kind helps to sustain and build interest in the SPL and our clubs, not only today, but for the next generation of fans."