Confirmed: Virgin Media reveal plans for Sky Sports HD and Sky Movies HD Channels

The following information is from Virgin Media:

"Virgin Media has confirmed plans to launch Sky Sports 1 HD and Sky Sports 2 HD on its cable TV platform next month as part of the deal to sell Virgin Media Television to Sky.

From August 2, Virgin Media's subscribers will be able to watch English Premier League, cricket, Rugby Union and other sports in high definition on the two channels.

Accessing Sky Sports 1 HD and Sky Sports 2 HD will cost an extra £7 per month on any of Virgin's TV packages when also subscribing to Sky Sports in standard definition."

The addition of the two HD channels has been made possible due to carriage agreements for Sky's basic HD channels and Red Button content as part of the deal to sell Virgin Media TV to the satellite broadcaster.

The deal, which was completed last week, will also see Sky 1 HD, Sky Arts HD and the Sky Movies HD channels launch on Virgin Media soon, with details to follow "in due course".