BBC HD gears up for launch

The BBC's high definition television service will come out of its trial phase with an official launch on Saturday, December 1.

The first programme to be carried on the fully launched service will be a simulcast of BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing at 17:45.

"I am delighted that BBC HD, the UK's first public service HD channel, is officially launching tomorrow, after the BBC Trust gave its approval last week," said BBC director of vision Jana Bennett. "HD is the next generation of television and a real opportunity for programme-makers to reach out to the audience in ways they have never done before. HD is a real creative enabler making our programmes even more powerful and outstanding."

BBC HD head Seetha Kumar said: "We are already recognised for setting the benchmark for quality in HD programming. We start with a fabulous weekend of TV – Strictly Come Dancing, Electric Proms with Paul McCartney, Earth - Power of the Planet and Cranford to name a few.

"Our Christmas schedule is also fantastic, with the likes of Extras Christmas Special, major blockbuster movies such as Kill Bill, Sin City and The History Boys alongside shows like The Tales Of Beatrix Potter With The Royal Ballet, Lessons And Carols From King's College Cambridge, Carmen, Jools Holland's Hootenanny and To the Manor Born and, for the first time, The Queen's Christmas Broadcast. There really is something for everyone."