Virgin Media has become the latest broadband provider to launch a money-saving promotion on entertainment-focused triple-play broadband packages, as telecoms companies compete to offer the most attractive deal in the run up to Christmas.

Triple-play broadband packages are those that combine a home broadband connection with cheap calls and a TV service. The entertainment facet makes them especially in-demand at Christmas, thanks largely to the exclusive movies, TV shows and sport on offer.

In the last week, Sky and BT have both unveiled incentives to give their broadband TV bundles a promotional push. Sky is offering all new customers who subscribe to its triple-play deals a free £50 Marks & Spencer voucher.

Meanwhile, under BT’s competing deal, consumers get free broadband for three months. This applies to its triple play packages as well as its double play products, which are defined as comprising a broadband connection and cheap calls.

Now, in a bid to make its offerings similarly attractive to cash-conscious consumers, Virgin Media has also unveiled a limited-period promotion. Available now from Top 10 Broadband’s dedicated provider page, the deal will see new subscribers who choose a double or triple play broadband deal pay nothing at all for their service for the first two months of their contract. Those who choose a Virgin Media bundle that includes a fibre optic broadband service will also benefit from free installation when they sign up online.

Jessica McArdle, marketing manager at Top 10 Broadband, said: "Virgin Media is joining the throng of ISPs looking to gain your custom in the run up to Christmas, with two months free broadband, TV and weekend calls, this is one offer you won't want to Great Escape."

The cheapest triple play Virgin Media broadband package is priced £19.50 per month. This entitles customers to a 10Mb broadband connection and unlimited weekend UK landline calls. They also benefit from Virgin Media's M+ TV product, which provides 65 digital TV channels including Sky1, LIVING, Bravo and Hallmark.

As well as ADSL and fibre optic broadband, Virgin Media’s broadband product range includes mobile broadband dongle deals which are available over short and longer-term contracts. These recently scooped the award for easiest set-up from leading consumer magazine Which?.