UK retail sales inched up 0.9% in the 12 months to November, with shopping activity subdued in the build-up to Black Friday at the end of the month.

Taking into account the effect of new stores opening growth was 2.2%, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC) figures, which was the strongest growth rate in three months.

Household appliances saw the swiftest trade over the month, which was testament to the success of Black Friday, followed by sales of furniture and home categories.

Online sales continued to storm ahead of the high street, with growth of 12% compared to November last year.

BRC director general Helen Dickinson said: "November's retail sales demonstrate continued growth in sales across the board compared to last month.

“The huge demand for bargain TV's and other household appliances on Black Friday, whether for personal use or as presents meant that electricals were the stand out category in terms of sales growth.”

Releasing trading figures today, British online retailer ASOS.com said sales increased 8% to £246 million in the three months to the end of November.

The figures were driven by domestic sales, but the strength of the pound had weighed down international trade, said founder and chief executive Nick Robertson.