Digital Den to add kids appeal for ntl

RTÉ's flagship children programme is set to go digital with its own channel on the ntl Electronic Programme Guide (EPG).

Dermot Horan, RTÉ Head of Broadcast and Acquisitions, welcomed the extension of Den TV across multiple platforms.

“We’re delighted with the launch," he said. "It means even more children will have the option of choosing to watch The Den – the most popular block of children’s programming in the country."

The Den has been on RTÉ since the mid-1980s. It is currently presented by Geri Maye, Francis Boylan, Dustin the Turkey and a variety of other puppets.

Screened in the afternoons, the show commands an average 27% share of viewers in the 4-14 age bracket.

Ntl Ireland's Mark Mohan said that the launch "supports one of our core activities and that is to extend Irish entertainment, education and information programming to our customers.

"This new initiative also emphasises our commitment and successful relationship with Irish indigenous broadcasters and we look forward to many more progressive partnerships in the future.”

Ntl digital launched in August 2001 and currently has 71,000 customers across Ireland.

The Den will appear on programme number 601 on the EPG.