Virgin expands HD channel line-up

FX HD

Virgin has four new HD channels signed up: FX HD, National Geographic HD, MTV HD and Living HD. Broadcasts will start from the end of July.

The new channels offer a raft of HD content, from critically-acclaimed programmes such as Grey's Anatomy, Dexter and Generation Kill, to visually stunning documentaries and top live music events in Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.

Neil Berkett, CEO of Virgin Media, says: "As more homes become HD-ready, the launch of four new HD channels marks the next stage in the evolution of our pioneering TV service."

Living will be available in high-definition for the first time. It will show some of the channel's most popular series including Criminal Minds, Ghost Whisperer, Private Practice and CSI.

Fans of The Wire and Family Guy will be able to see them in all their high-definition glory on FX HD, as well as the forthcoming series True Blood, from the creator of Six Feet Under.

Highlights on National Geographic HD will include Extreme Ice and Ancient Megastructures.

All the new HD channels will be available to Virgin XL TV customers for no extra charge. The company is also in talks with UKTV about broadcasting Good Food HD.