Discovery HD coming to Virgin Media

Virgin Media has announced that Discovery HD will soon become available on the cable TV platform as part of a raft of new high definition channel launches.

In the spring, Discovery HD will broadcast an all-day schedule of programming on Virgin Media, including popular programmes such as Extreme Engineering, Mythbusters and Bear Grylls: Born Survivor.

Further programmes from Discovery's extensive collection of over 1,500 hours of HD content - such as Deadliest Catch and Miami Ink - will also be made available in Virgin Media's on-demand service.

Discovery HD, which will be made available for free to all Virgin Media XL TV subscribers, follows last week's announcement about Eurosport HD also launching soon on the platform.

The cable operator says that "several" other channels will follow shortly to join its HD lineup, which currently includes BBC HD, Channel 4 HD, ESPN HD, Nat Geo HD, MTVNHD, FX HD and LIVING HD.

"Discovery's engrossing programming is all the more amazing in high definition and will make a compelling addition to our growing HD lineup," said Virgin Media director of digital entertainment Cindy Rose.

"We're adding several more HD channels in the coming months, which we will make available to our XL TV customers for no extra monthly fee.

"Compelling channels, combined with our vast collection of on-demand programming, will ensure that our customers have the best overall HD entertainment package available."

Discovery Networks UK executive vice president and managing director Dee Forbes added: "Virgin Media is a valued partner of ours and I am delighted that they have added Discovery's UK HD channel to their portfolio.

"Discovery has been at the forefront of HD development across the globe and now offers HD services in 23 international markets. HD is increasingly popular with TV viewers and with over 1500 hours of HD content to choose from, Discovery gives consumers the opportunity to see many of their favourite shows in stunning high definition."