Rise in Jersey's retail figures

For the first time in two years there has been an increase in Jersey's official retail figures, with people spending more than in 2009.

The States analyses what islanders buy, from pints of milk in the corner shop to power tools and diamond jewellery.

The latest figures show the overall volume of sales in July, August and September rose by 1% compared with the same months in 2009.

It is the first time since 2008 there has been a year-on-year increase.

It is mostly because people are spending more on food.

There was no change in the amount of non-food items, such as household goods, clothes and electronic equipment bought in Jersey.

It is the first time in two years there has not been a decline in sales for this group.