8 May 2006
New evidence has emerged that suggests over-50s are increasingly surfing the internet in order to add to their income.
Some silver surfers are earning an extra £1,000 a year to supplement their pensions, according to the research from Telewest.
The most popular method of topping up the income was to play the money markets, with 59% saying that they bought and sold stocks and shares online.
Buying and selling on the auction site eBay was the second most popular money spinner, involving 43% of the online earners.
Nearly one in ten said they took part in online market research to earn some extra income.
Philip Snalune, managing director for consumer products at ntl Telewest, said: "It's important to make the web simple for everyone, particularly older consumers, as it's becoming a trusted alternative to the high street.
"Getting up-to-speed with the net shouldn't mean more grey hairs."
Many over-50s also said they used the internet to save money on goods, as 54% of those surveyed used the internet to find cheap holidays.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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