PBS, the American public service broadcaster, has appointed Channel 4 as its exclusive advertising sales representative, ahead of the launch of its UK TV channel on Sky this November.

PBS UK, which will broadcast from 1 November, will specialise in factual broadcasting, with programmes that have an emphasis on science, history and current affairs.

Richard Kingsbury, general manager of PBS UK, commented on the tie-up:

In the States, PBS is well-loved and trusted for its award-winning programming, so it was essential for us to select a company capable of delivering a high quality viewing experience throughout the ad breaks as well. There's an obvious fit between our two brands and we're delighted to be represented by Channel 4.

Jonathan Allan, Channel 4's Sales Director added:

"PBS and Channel 4 have a natural synergy, in becoming their sales house we're helping bring the best public service programming from the US to a UK audience."

The deal is another in a long list of successes for Channel 4's sales team as PBS UK joins the likes of More4, Film4, E4 as well as all of UKTV's 10 channels on Channel 4's already extensive third-party sales portfolio.