Older people are being urged to get online to save money as the financial downturn deepens.

Age Concern believes that people could save on average £268 per year using online shopping and 'price comparison' websites U-Switch or GoCompare.com.

To help budding silver surfers, the charity has launched it's 'ITea and Biscuits’ to offer guidance and training about online shopping during this week.

Age Concern director, Gordon Lishman, said: 'At a time when older people are particularly concerned about money given rising costs, it is particularly useful for them to understand how ordering and paying for services online could save them money. The social benefits of being computer and internet literate are also important since they can give older people alternative means of communication with relatives and friends, as well as vital mental stimulation through online games, education and networking sites.'