Former Baywatch star David Hasselhoff has topped a list of the most popular stars on the internet amongst young people.

A new survey commissioned by Pipex has revealed that the star, known as 'The Hoff' to fans, is the male celebrity most likely to feature in e-mails and the cult figure most likely to be searched for amongst 16 to 24 year olds.

Hasselhoff commented: "I'm delighted to be such a hit on the web and to be crowned `King Of The Internet'. It is a great way for me to stay in touch with my fans across the world."

Screen icons including Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Michael J. Fox were also found to be popular, but could not rival Hasselhoff's following.