The survey of 126 firms, of which 61 were retailers, showed that sales volumes for the time of year were considered well above average and are expected to grow at a broadly similar pace in December.

The volume of orders placed upon suppliers inched up for the first time in eight months with a further slight increase expected for the year to December.

The increase in retail sales volumes was driven by the clothing and non-store goods sectors, as well hardware and DIY. Growth in internet sales volumes increased at a healthy pace over the same period, with expectations for growth in the year to December the strongest for two years.