Easynet - one of the few companies involved in local loop unbundling (LLU) in the UK - claims broadband is proving popular with its customers and says that 2002 will prove to be an "excellent year".

Publishing a trading statement yesterday that company said that trading - including revenues and costs management - was in line with market expectations.

It has launched LLU services in London, Scotland, Bristol, Berkshire, Kent and Surrey.

Some 385 businesses now have unbundled services from Easynet. Include new orders and the total comes to more than 680 punters.

Said chief exec, David Rowe: "DSL is proving very popular with Easynet customers and we are delighted with the pace at which we have been able to unbundle local loops and attract businesses to our service.

"Going forward we are confident that 2002 will be an excellent year for Easynet DSL and for the development of the wider group." ®