John Lewis sees 'outstanding' Christmas sales

John Lewis has reported an "outstanding" rise in like-for-like sales at its department stores during the Christmas period - up 6.2% from a year ago.

The figures came the same day as somewhat mixed results from fellow retailer Next who saw a 2.7% drop in Autumn and pre-Christmas sales at its High Street stores - although this was offset by a big jump in sales at its online business.

Other retailers who have yet to report are expected to unveil superficially strong growth figures, after Christmas trading a year ago was hurt by poor weather.

Hugh Pym Reports