John Lewis has reported a 4.6 per cent increase in year-on-year sales from Sunday to Wednesday, driven by sales of outdoor clothing and Christmas ranges.

John Lewis director of selling operations Dan Knowles said sales are up 8.5 per cent on last week. The department store, regarded as a key barometer for high street trading, recorded a sales uplift of 9.8 per cent year on year in the week to November 24.

Knowles said: “The continued cold weather is driving sales of outdoor clothing and customers are really responding to our assortment. With four shopping weeks left before Christmas we are seeing strong sales of festive gifts and other Christmas ranges.”