Marks and Spencer trading statement reveals retailer performed better than expected in first quarter.
Total UK sales for Marks and Spencer were up 1.7% in the 13 weeks to June 27, with general merchandise, which includes clothing and home, up 1.2%.

The company said in the statement that its home sales "continued to outperform the market", with figures up 0.1% for the sector.

UK like-for-like sales were down 1.4% overall, with general merchandise down 2.4%.

Marks & Spencer chairman Stuart Rose was pleased with the "improving trend" in the company's market performance but said that he remains cautious.

"Consumer confidence appears to be stabilising. However, we remain cautious about the outlook for the remainder of this and next year and will continue to run the business accordingly."