US 'Millionaire' turn-off hits Avesco

WHETHER they are choosing to phone a friend or just cannot be bothered waiting until after the break for the answer, no one knows. But either way, Americans are turning off

Avesco said television ratings and sales of merchandise related to the series, including board and computer games, would be sharply lower than expected in the second half. This was due mainly to the general economic downturn in Europe and the US, but had been made worse by the 11 September terrorist attacks on the US. 'Americans don't want to watch people win $1m,' said chief executive David Nicholson.

The shares fell 177 1/2p to 437 1/2p as analysts cut their full-year forecasts for operating profits by about £4m to £13m. Interim profits crashed from £4.1m to £6000 for the six months ended September. The dividend is held at 5p a share.