article_snippet: In the latest sign that a feel-good factor is returning to the economy, shares in Britain's biggest blue chip companies went through the 7,000 barrier for the first time.
article_snippet: The FTSE 100 index of leading shares rose 60.19 points to 7022.51, giving a confidence boost to millions of savers and people with pensions.
article_snippet: Yesterday marked the first time Britain's index of blue chip companies has breached 7,000 points since Britain's index of blue chip companies was launched on January 3, 1984.
highlights_snippet: Shares in UK's biggest blue chip companies through 7,000 for first time .
  
highlights_snippet: FTSE 100 index of leading shares increased 60.19 points to 7022.51 .
  