A free satellite television and radio service from the BBC and ITV is being launched across the UK to plug the gap left by Freeview by reaching an estimated 98% of households. It will carry 80 digital TV and radio channels, including free high definition programmes, with that number due to rise to 200 by the end of 2008.

Users will make a one-off payment for a dish, set-top box and installation i.e no monthly subscription.

Freesat boxes will be available from

The price of a box will start at £49, rising to £120 for a high-definition (HD) Freesat box. The cost of installation, including the satellite dish, will be a further £80.

Visit the official Freesat website for information regarding channel listings.