Internet firm Pipex Communications today reported an estimated 50% rise in its rate of broadband connections after hiring television star David Hasselhoff to front its advertising campaign.

Broadcaster BSkyB is to grab a slice of the rapidly growing broadband market through an acquisition worth up to £150m (€220m), it was reported today.

Entrepreneur David Rickards cemented his place on the British rich list yesterday, after selling his internet company, Pipex, for £55m (€78.5m)