(California): There was a shock announcement in the world of online retailing today when eBay put eBay up for sale on eBay.

An official spokesperson for the company cited an increasing amount of timewasters along with a desire to try 'a new challenge' as the basis for the decision.

"You know what it's like, things start out fun but then people start using it for a joke and you start to think why you do it," said Colin Fapovich.

"Everyone needs a new challenge and now we'll be starting afresh with something new."

ebayforsale

Item Specifics - Businesses for Sale

Business Type: Internet Businesses/ Websites
Sub-Type:--
Status: Active
Included in Sale: Small collection of PC World Magazine, 3 Tasmanian Devil mugs, 1 (one) Google Dartboard, Supplies
Profitability: Fair
Condition: Slightly used, mild damage

--Item Description on site

So far there have been no offers, despite a "Buy Now" price of £3.95. It's believed serious bidders are being put off by one factor.

"Let's be fair, 50% of the users are pillocks..." said Ernst Auktionator, a business analyst for Deutsche SellersHaus.

"There's entire sites dedicated to dumbass auctions, how can anyone take it seriously anymore?!"

The owners will now turn their attention to their new project eLay.

"We've spent years selling people's unwanted crap to other suckers who'll buy anything," said Fapovic.

"We thought, what else will computer geeks pay for...? That's when we thought of unwanted spouses.

"If you play your cards right it'll clear out a load of rubbish from your house too..."

Now eLay is doing sterling business and has spawned the new add-on payment system PorkPal and the photo hosting site Fluckher.

elay