Retail sales rise in June

Retail sales increased at their fastest pace last month since March, according to data released by the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

Sales also 1.2% on a like-for-like basis compared with June last year. It is thought that the sunny weather at the end of last month helped to stimulate sales, alongside the World Cup which increased sales of televisions.

DIY and leisure sales also did well in the bright weather. Total sales, which include the effect of increased floorspace, were up 3.4% on last year, again the best result since March.