Teletext, the programme that gaveall national, international and sporting news, weather and TV schedules, in the U.K, and was available from ITV, Channel 4 and Five, goes of air from February 2009.

"As anticipated, the continued fragmentation of television audiences and the growth in the use of the internet has resulted in a significant reduction in the audience and volume of commercial activity generated by the television services," the firm said.

"In addition, Ofcom has indicated that it is not persuaded of the need for public intervention in the delivery of a public commercial Teletext service beyond 2014 and this has also contributed to the decision to discontinue the public service. "Current economic conditions have accelerated this process, leading to today's announcement."

A spokesman for DMGT said all Teletext's news and information services, both on analogue and digital, would cease in January 2010.

However, its holiday service on Freeview and other commercial services will continue to broadcast. In addition its profitable travel sites will continue to operate.