RETAIL sales showed an unexpected rise last month after higher sales of clothing and food, the latest figures have shown.

Despite widespread reports of wet weather washing out sales, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said volumes rose by 0.6 per cent between July and August.

Although retailers said the poor weather had an impact, the usual August downturn was slightly smaller than in previous years.

The surprise figures went against recent surveys, which had indicated a sharp slowdown and led analysts to forecast a second consecutive monthly fall.

The monthly rise, which could increase the possibility of another rise in interest rates, was mainly due to increases in sales at clothing stores, food stores and department stores.

Sales of back-to-school items and the launch of catalogues offset regular downward effects associated with the holiday season.