ClickAJob News

The BBC is to launch three channels on internet video website YouTube in what it has described as a "groundbreaking" deal.

In an attempt to tap into the global market of YouTube's viewers, the tie-up will see the BBC boost its online presence and generate revenue to supplement the licence fee.

The initiative will see a wide range of content made available on the YouTube site.

Clips from BBC programmes like Doctor Who and Life On Mars will supplement around 30 news clips a day and an entertainment channel featuring material from programmes like Top Gear, Spooks and The Catherine Tate Show.

"This groundbreaking partnership between the BBC and YouTube is fantastic news for our audiences," BBC director-general Mark Thompson said.

"The partnership provides both a creative outlet for a range of short-form content from BBC programme makers and the opportunity to learn about new forms of audience behaviour."

Meanwhile YouTube chief executive and co-founder Chad Hurley said his company was "constantly looking for innovative ways to bring the best content to our community".

"The BBC is a premier source for quality programming and we're excited that they are leading the way in enabling two-way dialogue and real engagement with an entirely new audience. We hope to open up an entirely new audience for their content, while deepening their relationship with their existing viewers."

Internet search engine giant Google bought YouTube last October in a stock-for-stock transaction worth $1.65 billion (£0.88 billion).