Warm weather and sporting victories boosted sales of retailers in the UK. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) announced that sunny skies were a factor in buoying up the July sales this year to 2.2% compared to the same period last year. This is the best growth they've experienced since 2006 when the country experienced an extended heat wave. Swimwear, sandals, sun cream, beer and burgers enjoyed robust sales as consumers sought for ways to cool down.

The sporting successes enjoyed by Britain's athletes also contributed to the strong sales. Helen Dickinson, Director of the BRC, said the victory of Andy Murray in the Wimbledon as well as the triumph of Chris Froome in the Tour de France helped drive the solid sales performance. "While we know that the picture is still variable and the high street in particular continues to face considerable challenges, these positive results will be welcomed in town centres around the country that depend so much on retailers performing well," Dickinson told Sky News.