Today Google has launched a UK ‘Shows’ section on YouTube which will play free-to-air full length TV programmes and clips from Channel 4, ITN, BBC Worldwide and Turner. Google expects the quantity of programmes available on the site to increase significantly in the next few months but the 5000 or so that are already available are a good place to start.

Some of the programmes will be supported by advertising, in particular Channel 4’s long term content will display ads from Virgin Media, Universal, Orange, Samsung and Pepsi. Some of the full length shows that will be available include Peep Show, Derren Brown, Hollyoaks, the Inbetweeners, Adult Swim, He-Man and the World Rally Championships.