RESIDENTS in Worcester can now take advantage of a new home telephone service that allows everyone to join the texting revolution, without needing a mobile phone.

Telewest Broadband's texting service enables SMS to be sent and received using a text-enabled phone and landline. Or, for those with a standard phone, it will turn the text into an audio message.

Incoming messages are delivered by an automated female voice, which can even translate popular text abbreviations, such as 'u r gr8!'

Senders simply type the text and send it to the relevant home number - where the phone will ring to deliver the audio message, or store it if no one is available.

"Texting has never been more popular, but it's previously been exclusive to mobile phone users," said Eric Tveter, president and chief operating officer at Telewest Broadband.

"Our new service breaks down the barriers and allows family members and friends to send and receive SMS at home."

For more details about the new texting service and a list of compatible text phones, log onto www.telewest.co.uk/text or call 0800 953 5000.