UK retail sales rose by 0.9% in January

Retail sales rose 0.9% in January compared with December, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The figure was much stronger than forecast as many economists had expected sales volumes to fall.

The report showed particularly strong sales of furniture and sports goods as shoppers were tempted by steep discounts.

However, Vicky Redwood, Chief UK Economist at Capital Economics said she doubted the strength in sales would continue.