BBC in deal with Nine Network for 'Top Gear UK'

MUMBAI: BBC Worldwide Australasia has unveiled a new partnership with the Nine Network which will see the motoring entertainment show ?Top Gear? premiere on Foxtel?s BBC Knowledge before being transmitted on Nine and on GO!.

Under this new arrangement, BBC Knowledge will be the first Australian channel to screen the new series of Top Gear, bringing the program to subscription TV viewers in a consistent slot and only days after the UK transmission.

Nine Network viewers can enjoy the new shows shortly after their BBC Knowledge premieres. Once it has transmitted on the Nine Network, Top Gear will be available for catch up on Nine MSN and topgear.com/au, on DVD from Roadshow Entertainment and for download to own.

Jeremy Clarkson, James May, Richard Hammond and The Stig will have their BBC Knowledge premiere with Series 19 in the new year and some exciting one-off specials.

The deal was negotiated by BBC Worldwide Director of Sales Julie Dowding who said, "This is a significant deal for BBC Worldwide Australasia and for Australian Top Gear fans. We are fast-tracking ?Top Gear? to Australia by closing the transmission window, offering premium value to viewers on our wholly owned channel, BBC Knowledge, and ensuring that all Australians get the opportunity to view Top Gear by continuing our successful relationship with the Nine Network."

Nine director of television Michael Healy said, "We?re delighted to be continuing our successful relationship with Top Gear, bringing one of the world?s biggest shows to all Australians on Nine."

BBC Worldwide GM, director of channels Deirdre Brennan said, " ?Top Gear? is a premium brand that appeals to a broad audience, from families to motoring fans, with its infectious mix of credibility and character. It?s very exciting to be able to bring it to Australian Foxtel customers first on BBC Knowledge."