BBC to provide programming to the Community Channel

The BBC recently announced signing a content deal to supply programming from its extensive library to the Community Channel.
The BBC joins Channel 4, Granada and GMTV in supplying programming to the Channel.
Under the terms of the deal, BBC programming will be available for broadcast on the channel after premiering on the BBC.
The programming supplied will initially be drawn from the BBC archives, but suitable future productions will also be earmarked for broadcast on the channel after their BBC premiere.
The programming will tie into the Community Channel's ongoing weekly awareness campaigns.
Bryher Scudamore, Editor Digital Channel Development BBC, commented: "We are delighted to be supporting this not-for-profit charity channel with programming drawn from our extensive library."
Gerard Melling, Community Channel Managing Director said: "Working more closely with the BBC is a natural step for us. This is a great deal that provides the Community Channel with quality content."
The Community Channel is available on Sky Digital channel 684 and will also be one of the free-to-view channels that will be available on the Digital Terrestrial Television service later this Autumn.
The Community Channel is the first network television channel devoted exclusively to promoting the work of charities and community organisations.
Since its launch in September 2000, 280 not-for-profit organisations have appeared on the Channel to raise awareness, recruit volunteers, seek funds and sell charity products.
Funded by the Home Office's Active Community Unit and the Community Fund (formerly the National Lottery Charity Board), the Channel has received three years' free satellite from BSkyB, worth an estimated £1.8m.
Each week, the Community Channel runs a new awareness campaign, encouraging viewers to become actively involved in a wide variety of volunteering opportunities.
(SP)