Around the World's Markets: London

LEADING SHARES failed to extend their record-breaking run as profit- takers and a weak Wall Street gained the upper hand. The FTSE 100 closed 23.2 lower at 6,597.4 after having been in negative territory for most of the day. Dealers said that following Tuesday's all-time high, profit taking was to be expected. A losing start in the Dow also undermined sentiment. The second liners outperformed, with the FTSE 250 finishing 51.3 better at 6,062.1 - the third consecutive lifetime high.

Market Report, page 25