Millions of EastEnders fans may have to invest in digital TV receivers if they want to be the first to watch the hit soap.

The BBC is considering showing episodes on new youth channel BBC Three before they are seen on BBC One.

But no final decision has been made, the BBC says.

BBC Three will launch in early 2003

If implemented, the strategy could drive viewers to the BBC's new digital TV package, Freeview, and would give a boost to BBC Three.

"All plans for the launch schedule of BBC Three are being discussed across the board," a BBC statement said.

"The channel was given the go-ahead in September so this is still in early stages."

BBC Choice will change into BBC Three in early 2003.

Repeats of EastEnders are currently shown on BBC Choice two hours after being screened on BBC One.

The idea to swap the order in which they are shown is "included in discussions" about BBC Three, the statement said.

"But as to any further developments, there are none."

Popularity

EastEnders currently gets between 11 and 13 million viewers on BBC One and another 450,000 for the repeat on BBC Choice.

The digital channel has won viewers by airing episodes of shows like 24 and Shooting Stars first in the past - but the strategy has never been tried with such a popular programme.

The BBC has staked a lot on the success of its new digital TV and radio channels and on Freeview, which it helped launch as a replacement for ITV Digital.

Freeview gives viewers access to up to 30 channels through a �99 set-top box, with no monthly subscription charges.