EBay’s global sales soared 16% in its first quarter with fashion driving sales in the UK.

Global sales rose to £1.5bn in the three months to March 31.

EBay UK, which has 100 high street retailers selling on its site, said fashion was its most successful category.

EBay vice president of European marketplaces Clare Gilmartin said: “Our fashion Outlet continues to attract leading UK brands. Whatever your brand or product, the chances are that people are searching for it on eBay so it makes sense for brands to be where their shoppers are.Our recent appointment of Miriam Lahage will make sure we continue to grow the category and capitalise on the strength of the online fashion market.”

The UK marketplace sold over one million pairs of women’s shoes, one million dresses and over four million men’s coats and jackets in its first quarter.

It said its consumer electronics category also had a strong first quarter in the UK with nearly two million iPod Touches sold.