Disney UK sees 60% rise in audience share

Disney UK celebrates the first anniversary of its move onto the satellite and cable basic packages this weekend, with a 60% rise in audience share.

The channels are now part of the 'Kids Mix' of basic channels on Sky and the Media XL pack on Virgin Media, previously ntl:Telewest.

Shows like High School Musical, Hannah Montana and That's So Raven have helped push the Disney Channel's ratings beyond those of terrestrial broadcaster Five in the first quarter of 2007 alone.

Rob Gilby, managing director of Disney Channel UK, said: "Disney Channel has enjoyed incredible success over the past year with High School Musical achieving cult status in the UK and around the world. We're continually working on new ways to engage our teen audience with the most outstanding content and innovative technologies so 2007 is set to be a great year."

Disney Cinemagic, which launched into the premium movie market to coincide with Disney Channel's move to the basic package, is now the leading premium film channel for kids.

Last year High School Musical broke all records for a TV movie, by achieving a double platinum selling album, a top-selling DVD, and reaching an audience of over a million on its first weekend on the Disney Channel.