Brand new TV channel launches on Sky, Virgin Media and Freeview to fill the void from recent closure
A NEW channel has landed on TV screens across the UK to replace a long-running station that disappeared last night.
The new channel can be found on most platforms, including Sky, Virgin Media and Freeview.
Yesterday, London Live ceased broadcasting after more than ten years on air.
The channel was bought by Local TV Limited, which already operates in other parts of the country, including Birmingham, Leeds, Tyne & Wear, Liverpool, Cardiff, Bristol, Teesside and North Wales.
London TV is the replacement channel but the entire schedule has been overhauled.
And sadly for lovers of local content, there’s not a lot on the TV guide focused on the capital at the moment.
During most hours, London TV shows a simulcast of the True Crime channel which shows programmes such as Judge Judy.
But a new two hour news block airs in the evening from 6pm to 8pm.
According to the TV guide this will be an “essential guide to the latest news, sport and entertainment across London”.
A replay then goes out at 6am the next day, before a new bulletin goes live at 7am.
There’s also a London News at 1pm show.
London Live, the previous channel operator, bowed out after ten years.
On Thursday, London Live’s last flagship news programme, London Live News at 6, was broadcast for the very last time.
“Well, that’s it,” presenter Helena Wadia told viewers.
“After ten years that’s our final ever London Live News at 6 show.
“We want to thank you for watching today and over the last decade.
“It’s been a pleasure to bring you the local news from across London every week.”
London TV is available on the same channel numbers as London Live, which is 8 on Freeview, 117 on Sky satellite and 159 on Virgin Media.
More channel closures 'inevitable'
An industry expert told The Sun that more channel closures are likely in 2025 and beyond.
“This is inevitable, more broadcasters will cull broadcast/linear TV channels as viewers are flocking to streaming services,” Paolo Pescatore from PP Foresight said.
“The big TV switch off is around the corner, with all programming set to be delivered via the internet.
“Viewers are now spoilt for choice with how and where they watch the TV shows they love across a range of connected devices.
“To respond, broadcasters need to be prepared and work more closely with telecom providers to ensure a seamless experience for users.”