Marks & Spencer's embattled boss highlighted signs of progress today after the high street chain posted a surprise rise in half-year profits.
Marc Bolland pointed to an improving trend in womenswear following ''increasingly positive feedback'' from customers, although like-for-like clothing sales were still down 2.2% in the six months to September 27.
M&S, which has major stores at WestQuay in Southampton, Hedge End and Winchester, said its food business continued to outperform the market with a 1% rise in sales, despite the competition impacting on supermarket rivals.
Across the group, sales rose 1% to £4.9 billion and underlying profits lifted 2.3% to £268 million, compared with City expectations for a decline.
Mr Bolland said: ''M&S delivered sales growth and increased profit in the first half despite a tough market, particularly in September.
"We are pleased with the progress we have made against our key priorities for the year.''
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