The computer games website Gameswire.com has called off its search for creative and media agencies after deciding to handle the business in-house.

The company had announced its decision to find an agency to handle a £5m advertising assignment in June this year and subsequently began talks with TBWA/London, Leo Burnett, Universal McCann and Third Planet.

However, Adrian Marr, Gameswire's head of marketing, confirmed today that the company is "no longer in a position to make the appointment".

The company launched last June as a computer games information site and began selling games over the internet in November.

In an effort to build its brand, Gameswire.com has linked with the Department of Trade & Industry and software publisher Codemasters to launch the Games Development Awards. The aim is to differentiate it from other computer games sites and reach a young target market.