Arqiva broadcasting S4C HD service

Transmission services provider Arqiva has struck a deal with Welsh-language channel S4C to broadcast its recently launched HD service.

S4C HD has been on air since June 7, broadcasting content including coverage of the Euro2016 football championship, in which the Welsh team reached the semi-finals, to an average 629,000 weekly viewers.

The channel is available on the Sky and Freesat platforms in Wales and across the UK as well as on-demand platforms including BBC iPlayer.

Steve Cowin, chief technical officer at S4C said: “HD is important for TV viewers in 2016 – it is something that audiences both expect and deserve. The fact that we were able to do this in time for the UEFA 2016 Euro Championship was very important for us. We’re pleased to be extending our partnership with Arqiva to include the delivery of this HD option. From day one the HD stream was nearly faultless, meaning minimal alterations during transmission testing and final deployment within a short time period. The successful channel launch means our local audiences can now enjoy content – be that original drama ­– like Y Gwyll – entertainment, news or sports – both in high quality and Welsh-language, which is a significant step forward for us.”

David Crawford, managing director of satellite and media at Arqiva said: “At Arqiva we pride ourselves on delivering high quality, reliable satellite solutions, and consider service excellence and client support core aspects of our DNA. Having delivered S4C in SD via DTT broadcast for many years, we’re delighted that the channel has confirmed its confidence in Arqiva’s expertise by extending its HD business to our talented satellite communications team. We look forward to continuing our relationship with S4C, helping them to deliver an even higher standard of content to their Welsh and wider UK audiences.”