Businesswoman denies internet marriage auction is publicity stunt

An English businesswoman auctioning off her hand in marriage over the internet has denied it is a publicity stunt.

Kay Hammond from Birmingham says she didn't realise her idea would generate so much media interest.

Offers reached £10 million before eBay pulled the plug, but bidding has resumed on the qxl.com website.

Miss Hammond told the Richard and Judy show: "It's not a publicity stunt. I really don't mind what people think.

"I didn't realise the media would pick up on this at all - I really didn't. Everyone I work with is in absolute shock."

The 24-year-old, who is managing director of TAMBA Internet, has already received a new bid on qxl.com, matching her £250,000 reserve price.

She declined to name her company on the Channel 4 show as proof the auction is not a publicity stunt.

The auction closes on December 24.

Miss Hammond says she will meet with the highest bidders in January so they can decide whether to stand by their offer.

She said: "It's something I'm happy to go ahead with. Initially the money will go in my bank account. What happens to it after that is down to me."