BBC has entered into deals with Google's YouTube to distribute shows and clips via three branded channels as well as ad-supported news clips from the BBC's global outlets, the Hollywood Reporter reports.

Fans of BBC shows such as Life on Mars, Doctor Who and Torchwood will be able to watch clips and especially commissioned content on two branded channels, with search provided by Google.

BBC Worldwide will also provide archival episodes of such shows as Top Gear, Spooks and The Mighty Boosh on an advertising-funded basis, alongside an ad-supported news clips service. Users will be able to comment on clips, rate them, recommend them to friends, and post video responses.

The partnership with YouTube isn't exclusive, with the BBC having left open the possibility of entering into similar content distribution deals with other video-sharing sites.