Peter Urie has beenappointed Managing Director of UK distributor Metrodome, following theresignation of current head Andrew Keyte, who is leaving for an as yetundisclosed job in the television industry.

Urie worked for the BBC invarious roles for 12 years before founding TSS Ltd. and Media Merchants Ltd,along with 2 other partners. Both companies specialised in creating children'scontent for ITV and the BBC. Gullane Entertainment PLC acquired both companiesand subsequently sold to HIT Entertainment in August 2002, where Urie continuedto work as Vice President, Group Head of Production (Europe), whilst remainingManaging Director of TSS Ltd and Media Merchants.

Keyte has worked atMetrodome for two and a half years and will leave the company at the end ofSeptember. Urie, who is also named chief operating officer of Metrodome parentcompany TV Loonland, joins today (August 22).

MetrodomeGeneral Manager-Theatrical Sara Frain and head of DVD sales Tom Stewart willreport to Urie.

Metrodome Chairman SelmaKäppel said: "The company has a great team in place and I am delighted thatsomeone of Peter's experience is taking over the helm."

Forthcoming Metrodomereleases this year include The Mighty Celt (Aug 26), Rag Tale (Oct 7) and Mad Hot Ballroom (Nov 25).