BBC Alba to be broadcast on Freeview for first time

BBC Alba has been available on satellite television and over the internet

Gaelic television service BBC Alba will start to broadcast on Freeview for the first time from 1700 BST.

The channel will appear on Freeview channel 8 after being available for more than two years on satellite television and the internet.

Due to a lack of bandwidth, a number of BBC radio stations will go off air on Freeview when BBC Alba is broadcasting - but not 1 Extra, 5 Live and 6 Music.

BBC Alba is a joint venture between the BBC and the media service MG Alba.

Alasdair Morrison, chairman of MG Alba, said those involved had "worked tirelessly" to broadcast the channel on Freeview.

He added: "We have been grateful for the support from the BBC Trust as well as that received from politicians in Holyrood and Westminster."

Western Isles MSP Alasdair Allan said it was an important step forward for Gaelic television.

The move to Freeview comes as the channel announced it will provide live coverage and highlights from the Rock Ness festival near Inverness.