Strong start for 'Heroes' on BBC Two

More than 4 million viewers tuned in for the debut of Heroes on BBC Two last night, according to early ratings figures.

The first episode, shown from 9pm, pulled in an average of 4.3 million viewers and a 19.8% share of the audience. The ensuing episode retained a healthy 4 million (18.3%).

The figures made BBC Two second for the 9pm hour, beaten only by ITV1's Wire in the Blood with 4.8 million (22%) over 90 minutes.

Channel 4's Big Brother had 3.3 million (15.1%) in the 9pm hour while on BBC One, Crimewatch Solved averaged just 3 million (13.5%).

Also helped by a Top Gear special with 4.5 million (20.8%), BBC Two managed an average share of 16.5% between 7pm and 10.30pm against BBC One's 14.1%, the biggest victory BBC Two has had over its older sibling since 1994.