5 News introduces new bulletin at 5.30pm

Channel 5 today announced it is moving its main evening news bulletin to 7.30pm and introducing a new bulletin at 5.30pm.

The weekday ITN 5 News, presented by Charlie Stayt, will move from its current 6.00pm slot to 7.30pm on Monday, July 16th with the new 5.30pm starting on the same day.

Channel 5's Chief Executive, Dawn Airey, said: "Traditionally there has been an audience for a bulletin at 5.30pm. We believe that this is the right time to show news for a significant number of our viewers."

Channel 5's Senior Programme Controller, Chris Shaw, added: "By doubling our evening news output we are underlining the Channel's continued commitment to high-quality national and international news.

"5 News has been a trail-blazer for TV news in Britain - indeed our recent General Election coverage was widely praised for its originality and fresh approach. These latest changes give us a new opportunity to bring news to British viewers in an innovative and accessible way."

Editor of 5 News, Gary Rogers, said: "What we are aiming for is a news that combines the best elements of traditional bulletins with the immediacy and excitement of a rolling news service.

"The hours between five and seven are crucial in terms of news events. Frequently news breaks within that time, for example the Prescott Punch. The two bulletins mean that we will be more flexible and respond rapidly to breaking stories."