Tesco has noticed a big rise in orders placed through its internet shopping business in the early hours of the morning.

The firm believes the rise could be down to restless customers unable to sleep during the hot summer nights.

Tesco.com recorded a 73 per cent rise in sales between midnight and 6am since last month.

A spokesman said: "Instead of counting sheep, thousands of people are turning to their computers."

Wednesday August 27, 2003