As picked up by the Guardian, the Bookseller and Publishing News, Random House UK has announced that it has bought BBC's Book Division. Though the Beeb will still have a stake in the company (but only about 20%), Random House will be merging BBC Books with its own Ebury Press, which specializes in tv tie-ins and lifestyle books.

John Smith, the chief executive of BBC Worldwide, said: "We have for some time stated our intention of seeking a partner for our books business and are delighted to have reached this agreement with a publisher of the calibre of Random House. The union will bring additional scope and scale to BBC Books and enable the imprint to build further on this year's financial success and continue to grow its enviable list. We look forward to working with our new colleagues."

Random House UK CEO Gail Rebuck added: "This combination of the best creative talent backed by RH's international sales and distribution capacity ensures that we can expand on existing opportunities and create new projects for the global market." BBC Worldwide c.e.o. John Smith added: "The union will bring additional scope and scale to BBC Books and enable the imprint to build further on this year's financial success and continue to grow its enviable list. We look forward to working with our new colleagues."