The notion that most old people fear technology is fast becoming an outmoded one, as recent figures reveal that more than half of Britons aged over 50 have access to the internet. Of those, one in five regularly access emails, and use instant messaging, internet phones and social networks to keep in touch with family and friends; figures that match the rest of the population. Over-50s, or 'silver surfers' as they are known, spend almost £205 billion a year in the UK, presenting an enormous opportunity for on-line merchants.