U.K. cable operator Telewest has launched high-definition (HD) service as it looks to get a jump on similar plans from satellite operator BSkyB. The service is available to more than 4.5 million homes in the United Kingdom.

Subscribers to Telewest’s personal video recorder service, TVDrive, can access free HD programming from BBC Worldwide, and pay-per-view movies are expected to be available soon, Telewest said.

BSkyB expects to launch its HD service soon.