Free-to-air channels POP and Tiny POP have been pulled from Freeview and other platforms, with these closures bringing an end to more than two decades of linear broadcasting.

Launched in 2003 by CSC Media, the two channels became a staple for children all across the UK among those whose parents used Freeview, Sky and Virgin.

However, from today, the channels, which rose to popularity thanks to their iconic Saturday morning programming, will only be available as a streaming service.

POP and Tiny POP axed from Freeview after more than 20 years on the air

With these linear channels being removed from Freeview and the accompanying POP Player shutting down, there is only CBBC, CBeebies and Milkshake! on Channel 5 left as the last remaining traditional children’s channels.

Narrative Entertainment say they were forced into making the move after a collapse in commercial viability.

Narrative MD Paul Dunthorne said: “We’ve taken the decision to close our linear POP channels at the end of the year.

“We understand the importance of offering high-quality kids’ TV, and we’ve done everything that we can to maintain POP.

“But free-to-air channels for this audience are simply not commercially viable without public service broadcaster-style funding.”

However, not all of its channels are closing for good, with its FAST service remaining available to those with internet-connected Freeview, Samsung and LG smart TVs.

The director in charge of the POP channels will remain in place to oversee the FAST portfolio.

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This is said to come at a time when children are increasingly turning away from traditional television in favour of online content.

Social media has proven particularly popular, with many young people opting to watch shows on YouTube.

This comes after Virgin Media decided to add new channels to its offering, with Tingray Classica and Stingray DJAZZ showing classical music, opera and ballet performances, as well as jazz concerts, films and artist profiles.