National Grid powers up the FTSE

National Grid posted the biggest gains with a rise of 6.8% to 746.5p, following decent interim results and news of asset disposal and share buyback plans, closely followed by Shire which climbed 4.21% to £10.52. A target upgrade to 460p from 450p helped shares in Bradford & Bingley which climbed 4.11% to 468.25p, closely followed by Old Mutual which gained 4.06% to 185.75p, while Northern Rock added 2.96% to £12.18. Mining firm Vedanta Resources was the biggest drag on the index with a drop of 7.07% to £12.88, on news of a $1.9bn investment in an Indian power plant, while Reed Elsevie...