Troubled internet and phone provider TalkTalk ( AOL UK , Tiscali ), which recently topped an Ofcom list of the most complained about UK telecoms operators (here), is trying to entice new customers by offering its broadband packages at half the usual price for the next 12 months.

As a result of the new deal TalkTalk's basic Essentials package (up to 24Mbps, 40GB usage) now costs just £3.25 per month instead of the usual £6.50. Likewise their Pro deal (up to 24Mbps, "unlimited" usage) is just £7.25 instead of the usual £14.50. Both include a FREE Connection, although you'll still have to pay £12.60 per month for the phone line rental.