Saxondale and Hyperdrive to be broadcast on BBC America

Saxondale and Hyperdrive are the latest programme acquisitions by BBC America. Steve Coogan's tale of ex-roadie, Tommy Saxondale, forging a new life as the owner of a pest control business, premieres in October. It played to mixed reviews during its UK run, with several critics accusing it of being light on laughs, whilst viewing figures were disappointing.

The critically derided science fiction comedy, Hyperdrive, starring Nick Frost, will premiere in early 2007. Despite less-than-impressive viewing figures, the show is set to return to BBC2 next year for a second series.

Meanwhile the BBC has just unveiled plans to launch four new channels around the world, including one called BBC Entertainment which, it is assumed, will show classic BBC comedies. All will be available as linear channels, on mobile phones, via video-on-demand and online.