The Share Centre 30 per cent rise in ISA take-up

Against the backdrop of a difficult market, end of tax year figures from retail stockbroker, The Share Centre, show a defiant 30 per cent rise in the number of Individual Savings Accounts (ISA) opened, compared with the same period in 2007.

Commenting on the increase, Ian Benning, Product Development Manager at The Share Centre said: "Our ISA take-up figures continue to improve each year and it is encouraging to see that many investors are riding out the markets with a long term view.

"This year we were able to enhance our range with the launch of a Funds ISA. This offers customers the choice to invest in over 1400 funds from well-known investment companies using a tax efficient wrapper. And our no annual fee makes it a cost effective way for investors to mix and match the funds they want to include, depending on their appetite for risk". For more information on the Funds ISA visit share.com/fundsisa.

As part of Share plc's proposed admission to AIM, The Share Centre is offering 200 free shares in Share plc to customers who fully subscribe to either their DIY, or Funds ISA in the 2008/09 tax year. The Share Centre will also pay up to £300 in switching costs for investors wishing to transfer an ISA or PEP. For more information on the free shares offer please visit share.com/freeshares.