Computer business buffs have little affection for an e-mail virus proclaiming "I love you".

The mystery virus has disabled network systems throughout Britain in the past 24 hours (Thursday-Friday) -- including Essex.

The virus caused widespread disruption at the Ford research centre in Dunton, near Laindon. It also spread rapidly across the rest of the motor giant's offices.

A spokesman declared: "It attacked our system this morning and our computer people have spent the day trying to trace the source of the trouble."

At Basildon-based Telewest Communications a spokeswoman said: "We were plagued by the love-letter virus from early morning. It has caused all sorts of problems."

Even at the Echo it brought a nasty scare. Luckily the saucy greeting was spotted on screen by reporter Kelly Clark.

She said: "I heard about the so-called love message and what damage it could do to our network.

"As soon as it showed up among my e-mail messages I alerted the Echo computer staff and they strongly advised me to leave it well alone."

Kelly's message came via her boyfriend, a victim of the computer love virus who works in the City.

Kelly, 23, received it because her name is listed in his e-mail address book but he phoned and warned her in the nick of time.

Factories, banks, offices and even the House of Commons were not so fortunate.

The virus forced a shut down of the entire communications system, Commons leader Margaret Beckett told stunned MPs.

She added: "I don't know whether to say I am sorry or pleased that I have not received an e-mail saying I love you," prompting a smile from husband, Leo, in the Commons VIP seats.

Expert Sarah Perkins said about ten per cent of firms in Britain were affected by the virus which tells users: "Kindly check the attached love letter from me."

Sarah, who writes for PC Pro magazine, explained: "The virus sends itself to everyone in your e-mail address book, then to everyone in their address books, too.

''It completely wipes out your network."

Reporter - Kelly Clark

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