Nintendo's new console gets off to a great start in the UK, selling more than 50,000 systems in 12 hours.

perspective shot of wii - 50,000 Wiis sold in the UK

We all knew it was going to be a successful launch for Nintendo, but now it's official. According to Nintendo more than 50,000 Wiis were sold during the first 12 hours the system was on sale in the UK. This equates to one system sold every second since stores opened at midnight.

David Yarnton, General Manager, Nintendo UK, was clearly delighted with the Wii's launch in the UK:

"We are delighted with the amazing response to Wii and that people of all ages and gaming experience are embracing the way that we are turning the industry on its head," stated Yarnton. "With so many units sold it is great to see that people will be enjoying Wii with their families this Christmas. We are doing everything we can do to meet demand throughout Christmas and the New Year period."

Overall sales across Europe have yet to be released, but similar success is expected.