THE email inbox is replacing the letterbox as a means for communication in the North-East, research has found.

An ICM survey for Newcastle New Media Group has shown the region is leading the way in embracing electronic communication.

According to the study, 30 per cent of people say the best way to get attention is to send an e-newsletter - a higher percentage than anywhere in the UK.

Those most likely to respond to an e-newsletter are aged between 35 and 44, showing emails were not mainly used by teenagers.

Sarah Linley, managing director of Fuseboxdesign, part of North-East architect Red Box Design Group, said: "With 70 per cent of the UK having access to the internet, it is evident that the inbox is replacing the letterbox.

"Rather than receive direct marketing on the doorstep and put it straight into the recycling, the greener option is to be kept in touch via the inbox and, here in the North-East, we're embracing that.

"The massive growth of the internet means the days of paper-based promotion are numbered."