Alibi HD launches on Sky and Virgin Media

British and American crime drama channel Alibi has launched in high definition (HD) on Sky and Virgin Media.

The HD simulcast can be found at Sky channel 132 and appears at position 131 on the cable company's electronic programme guide.

UKTV, which operates Alibi and a string of other digital TV services, also announced the acquisition of US series The Glades and White Collar from 20th Century Fox.

The first series of The Glades is set to premiere on Alibi this September, while White Collar will launch the following month.

"Both these series have proved hugely popular in America and are the perfect fit for Alibi's remit of showcasing the best crime drama available," said Steve Hornsey, general manager of Alibi.

According to new figures from the Broadcasters' Audience Research Board, UKTV was the country's fastest-growing television network in the first half of the year.

During the six-month period, the network's various channels - which also include Eden, Gold and Watch - achieved an average audience share of 4.41 per cent.

Watch, its flagship entertainment channel, drew more than one million viewers on 26 occasions.