THE rate of inflation rose for the first time in five months in February to hit the Bank of England's target of two per cent, official figures showed. The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) was driven up from 1.9 per cent in December and January to two per cent last month by the rising cost of computer games and books, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. It was the first time since June that inflation hit the bank's target - making an imminent change in interest rates unlikely. The ONS said the largest upward pressure on the CPI came from the increased price of computer games in contrast to sales a year ago. The cost of hardback books also recovered and there was firm pressure from the price of printer paper, furniture and carpets. The ONS said the rising cost of electricity had an effect, but soaring gas prices had no impact due to similar increases last year. The last time the rate of inflation increased was in September when it rose from 2.4 per cent to 2.5 per cent. It fell in October, November and December and remained unchanged in January as the effect of August's interest rate cut kicked in. The figure for February was in line with expectations. It followed last month's quarterly inflation report by the Bank's Monetary Policy Committee which forecast the CPI to remain close to two per cent for the next three years.

Pat's profits: Postman Pat owner Entertainment Rights said the loveable postie's march across the world had helped it to another year of record profits. The group, which also owns the rights to Basil Brush and Little Red Tractor, said operating profits soared 134 per cent to £7.5m last year while turnover increased 21 per cent to £30.7m. The character who became Postebote Pat in Germany this month is now on air in the world's five largest pre-school markets