LineOne has abandoned its unmetered internet service.

Chief executive Andy Harwood sent an e-mail to users saying it could not cope with the demand.

Current subscribers will be able to choose between switching to a pay-as-you-go service or a resold BT Surftime system.

LineOne is still in talks with BT and its spokeswoman could not guarantee the Surftime service would be offered at the current unmetered price.