M&S continues with comeback

Marks & Spencer delivered more evidence that its retail renaissance is under way when it reported strong Christmas trading figures.

The retailer posted a total like-for-like sales increase of 6.7 per cent for the seven weeks to January 11.

Gains in clothing led the performance - there was an overall increase in sales of clothing, footwear and gifts of 9.3 per cent.

M&S has now achieved five consecutive quarters of strong clothing sales growth.