John Lewis sales up 19 per cent in stores

In a further sign that economic and political uncertainty has failed to put the brakes on spending, John Lewis ended a "hugely successful" Easter holiday period with sales of 51.3m for the week to last Saturday.

And as the company's first quarter draws to a close, John Lewis said there was "plenty of satisfaction at a very strong start to 2010".

The arrival of better weather lifted fashion sales by 27 per cent last week, while outdoor toys, sunglasses and sandals were also in demand.

The chain's London stores delivered a strong performance following growth of around 30 per cent at Oxford Street and Peter Jones at Sloane Square. Johnlewis.com also enjoyed a busy week with sales up 39.7 per cent.

Lewis' head of multi-channel Simon Russell said: "As we near the end of the first quarter we can look back with plenty of satisfaction at a very strong start to 2010.

"After a hugely successful Easter period we are well placed to continue this trend, with the arrival of great new ranges combined with a determination to continue offering customers a fabulous shopping experience whether in shops, over the telephone or online.

Meanwhile, sales at supermarket operation Waitrose were up 27 per cent after receiving a boost from the recent warm weather.