BBC launches joint Web/TV programme

The BBC is launching a new interactive game show for children that blurs the lines between TV and the Internet. Sub Zero is the Beeb's most ambitious interactive project so far and hinges on children e-mailing two teams in the studio during the live programme to help the contestants solve their hi-tech quests. Live e-mail will be scrolled on-screen throughout the show and Webcams in a dozen cybercafes around the UK will link children around the country to the studio. "This type of programming has amazing potential," said Marc Goodchild, the producer of Sub Zero. "And ultimately, it could even help pave the way for interactive TV." Each week Sub Zero will also be setting an Internet treasure hunt leading children to some of the more exciting and informative sites on the Net. ®