Sales up 10.8%
Like-for-like retail sales in central London rose 10.8 per cent year on year during March, London Retail Consortium (LRC) data showed.

In the three months to March, retail sales growth also increased 8.6 per cent.

Clothing, footwear, outdoor furniture and gardening products all benefited from the spring weather. Mother's Day helped beauty, accessories, jewellery and gift food.

LRC director Kevin Hawkins said: 'Another good result for central London retailers. Tourism seems to be booming and this, combined with continuing strong price competition for their businesses, suggests further growth is likely.'

New West End Company chief executive Gary Reeves added: 'Retail confidence is high in the West End. Sales figures continue to remain strong. A combination of increased tourism and a host of high-profile store openings continues to attract shoppers from London, UK and abroad.'