Figures above monthly average
Scottish retail sales grew faster in June than the rest of the UK, according to the Scotland Retail Sales Monitor.

Like-for-like sales were up 3.8 per cent on last year, compared with a 2.3 per cent rise across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Sales were also well above the monthly average for January to May.

The good weather drove sales of barbeque foods, beer and wine, as well as seasonal non-food products - such as gardening accessories, DIY and outdoor furniture. Clothing and footwear sales dipped, after picking up in April and May.

SRC director Fiona Moriarty said: 'The sunnier weather and strong tourist spending helped to achieve three consecutive months of good sales growth. There is some nervousness though. Scottish retailers, like others in the UK, are relying on widespread discounting and promotions to bring shoppers out by overcoming fragile consumer confidence and worries about future rate rises.'