Virgin to launch Challenge gaming channel

Virgin Media is to launch a Challenge-branded interactive gaming channel in collaboration with Two Way Media.

Challenge Jackpot will launch on Tuesday, July 1 as a 24 hour television channel on Virgin Media cable and will also be available on Freeview and Sky via Virgin 1 and Bravo 2 simulcasts overnight. On cable, an interactive application developed by Two Way Media will enable viewers to play along with live programming on the channel; alternatively, viewers may participate on the channel's website.

Eight hours of live studio games will be broadcast each day, with automated games including Get Set Roulette and Face Up Hold 'Em appearing when live programming is off the air.

"Challenge Jackpot is the first step in reinventing Challenge for the twenty-first century," said Virgin Media Television managing director Jonathan Webb. "We want this new channel to continue the values of fun and excitement that have long been synonymous with Challenge – but also to take the relationship with our viewers to the next level of interactivity."

Challenge Jackpot will be added to the Virgin EPG at channel 154, alongside Challenge and Challenge +1. It will not be available in Northern Ireland due to "regulatory and legal restrictions". Games will be overseen by Ofcom and, because Two Way's gaming division is based there, the Alderney Gambling Control Commission.