Television company The Oxford Channel says its future is secure after being taken over by a new owner.

The Milestone Group, which describes itself as "a local multimedia group with television, radio, print and new media interests" has bought a controlling interest in Oxford Broadcasting Ltd through its subsidiary Aroma Television.

The Oxford Channel, which operates from a base in Woodstock Road, said the move secured the future of free-to-air terrestrial television in Oxfordshire. It announced plans to launch an innovative, stimulating mix of programmes.

The new schedules will include "local shows reflecting the cultural and social mix of Oxford and the surrounding area", plus national and international news, sport, lifestyle, weather and interactive shopping programmes.

Oxford businessman Toby Blackwell, who recently took a backseat in the family book business, is joining the board of directors. Station founders Debora Cackler and Thomas Harding will continue to sit on the board. New managing director Martin Atkin, who has 20 years of broadcasting experience, said: "Viewers can look forward to a unique mix of programmes delivered free through their existing television sets. We aim to make the channel the premier local station in the UK."