We are pleased with our performance over the last six months, particularly against the backdrop of the decline in consumer confidence. Our strategy to always look at means of improving our product ranges, websites and catalogues has enabled us to deliver strong growth across our brand portfolio. We will continue to develop our channels to market and enrich our product offer. While the uncertain length and depth of the economic downturn still worries retailers generally, the 11.8% increase in sales for the first five weeks gives us confi dence that we can continue to deliver growth in the second half.
