Around the World's Markets: LONDON

THE FTSE 100 index closed at a new record, propelled by continuing demand for technology-related stocks and a resurgent pharmaceutical sector.

Vodafone AirTouch was a key drivers after the mobile phone group formally launched the world's largest hostile bid for Germany's Mannesmann. The benchmark index rose 48.2 points to finish at 6,776.8 - eclipsing its previous record close of 6,742.2 set on 3 December.

Market report, page 15