FTSE tips 6000 barrier

The FTSE 100 Index touched the 6000 barrier today after the London market benefited from a surge by shares in the mining sector.

During an upbeat start to the week, the Footsie hit 6001 before dipping back to 5984.8 at mid-morning – a rise of 37.2 points. It was the first time the blue chip index has touched the 6000 mark for more than a month.