The FTSE 100 Index closed 1% lower today as jittery investors reacted to a lacklustre start to trading in New York.

Growing concerns over the US economy sent UK blue chips plunging into negative territory today, with news of a raft of high profile potential takeovers unable to stem the losses.

Fears of another hike in interest rates overshadowed trading today as London’s blue-chips finished in the red.

London’s blue-chips were under pressure today as key UK inflation data left investors fearing another imminent interest rate rise.

Pub groups and mining stocks led a rally on the London market today, adding to the boost from an overnight surge on Wall Street.

Disappointing sales figures from the UK's largest supermarket chain weighed heavy on the London market today leaving a raft of blue chip retailers in the red.

The FTSE 100 Index rallied today to recover earlier losses sparked off by selling in US bond markets and fears of higher interest rates.

Brewer Scottish & Newcastle saw its shares enjoy a late surge today on rumours of possible bid interest from Heineken or Carlsberg.

Internet gambling stocks dragged the London market into the red today in the wake of anti-gaming legislation passed in the US.

Hopes of consolidation among water utilities drove the London market forwards today after Anglian Water owner AWG said it had received an approach from a potential bidder.

The London market maintained its strong run today as investors continued to draw encouragement from recent earnings updates in the US.

Confidence in gaming shares was rocked today by charges laid against the operator BetonSports and its chief executive David Carruthers.

Excitement over a potential takeover deal in the mining sector ensured London shares remained at their best level since the summer of 2001 today.

London stocks ended the week in lacklustre form today after a major share sale sent oil heavyweight BP lower.

Mining stocks drove the FTSE 100 Index to a new four year high today after traders had earlier breathed a sigh of relief at the passing of Hurricane Rita.

Financial stocks led a nervous London market lower today as the bluechip FTSE 100 Index added to the heavy losses of the previous session.