IMPROVING export orders have helped the manufacturing sector grow this month, a report has claimed.

The CBI Industrial Trends Survey says total order books remain well above average.

The analysis, focusing on 501 companies, also revealed export order books were above average, matching February’s six-month high.

It added growth in output volumes recovered from April’s 22-month low, but remained relatively modest.

Rain Newton-Smith, CBI director of economics, said: “Things are looking up for our manufacturers, with growth continuing and export orders improving.

“Some of this could be down to an improvement in the Eurozone’s momentum, but the strengthening pound is still proving quite a challenge.

“To drive trade progress forwards, we want to see the new Government re-commit to an ambitious, long-term export target to fully unlock the UK’s potential.

“Doing this will be vital to boosting investment, jobs and growth right across the country.”