John Lewis revealed this morning that sales from Sunday to Wednesday this week were up 27% on 2008 levels.

Last minute gift sales in beauty, lingerie and gift food have been particularly strong, with designer lingerie sales up 115%. Cold weather footwear, such as snow boots and wellingtons, and high tog duvets have also fared well due to the snow.

The Clearance starts online at 6pm today, and in stores on the 27th, except for Trafford which will open Boxing Day.

“We have had a cracking Christmas and are anticipating an equally strong Clearance, having bought in 15% more bargains,” said Director of Selling Operations Nat Wakely.