GB News could launch on May 31 – here’s what we know so far about the controversial new channel

GB News is reportedly set to hit screens at the end of the month, launching its elaborate bid to challenge the BBC.

The 24-hour news channel will go live on May 31, according to The Sunday Telegraph, and people are chomping at the bit.

While some members of the public are overjoyed at the prospect of something different, others have dismissed the broadcaster as the UK’s answer to Fox News.

Still, viewers of all persuasions might need to hold their horses, with a spokesperson for the controversial network insisting the timing of the launch hasn’t yet been firmed up.

The launch date isn’t the only detail that’s proving hard to pin down, with other info around the channel still pretty slim.

With that in mind, we’ve rounded up all the available facts about the hotly anticipated news service. Here’s what we know so far:

Who’s involved?

GB News has already poached some big names from rival broadcasters. Not long after finishing his time on BBC News’ Afternoon Live, beloved newsreader Simon McCoy was announced as a face joining the team.

Veteran bulldog Andrew Neil will spearhead its march forward, taking on the role of GB News chairman and hosting a primetime hour-long programme four nights a week at 8pm.

Sky News’ Colin Brazier is leaving the broadcaster after more than 20 years to become an anchor for GB News’s daytime interview and debate programme.

As for figures known to ITV audiences, former newsreader Alistair Stewart will present a weekend news and current affairs show; The Sun’s executive editor Dan Wootton, who regularly appears on Lorraine, is on board; and Soccer Aid’s Kirsty Gallagher will join the GB News breakfast team.

Guido Fawkes reporter and pro-Tory commentator Tom Harwood will join the team as a political correspondent, while Euronews’ political editor Darren McCaffrey will take up the same role at the rival station.

The line-up will also feature past Apprentice winners, with former Brexit Party candidate Michelle Dewberry – who recently appeared on Question Time with – due to present a weekday evening show.

Former politicians are also getting involved, with former Labour MP Gloria De Piero hosting a weekday afternoon programme.

Away from the confirmed names, Piers Morgan is still rumoured to be a potential high profile addition, following his departure from ITV’s Good Morning Britain earlier this year.

What does the channel aim to offer?

The network’s job site describes the channel as one which is “changing the face of news and debate in the UK”, while its official website promises to “deliver news, opinion and debate for all of the United Kingdom”.

Reports have already surfaced that Neil’s programme will feature segments known as “Wokewatch” and “Mediawatch”, hinting that the channel will adopt a right-wing stance.

Despite that, GB News’ director of news has insisted that the channel will be “free, fair [and] impartial” and follow the rules set by the broadcast regulator Ofcom.

Where can I watch it?

GB News will air on Freeview channel 236.

It will be broadcast across Sky, Virgin Media, YouView and Freesat, as well as via a dedicated on-demand streaming service.