Around the World's Markets: London

AFTER AN early gain Footsie fell back, closing 33.2 points lower at 5,843.3. Although the undertone remained optimistic, weakness in the Tokyo market took its toll. Supporting shares were again in positive territory with the mid cap index gaining 20.4 to 4,763.3.

Ladbroke was the top performing Footsie constituent, gaining 13p to 238p following the pounds 390m sale of its Coral betting shops. Colt Telecom, likely to be named share of the year, rose 37.5p to a new peak of 956.5p.

Derek Pain, page 13