Consumers spending in the UK rose significantly last month, Bloomberg informs. Spending growth rate was 5,1% in comparison with the last year.

Holidays in the beginning of May and higher than average temperature during the whole month stimulated Britons to buy everything from clothes to barbecue attributes. It cheered up retailers in the country, which sales were hit by snowstorms in first quarter.

These results support assumption made by the leaders of Bank of England that slowdown in first quarter was temporary and might stimulate next rate hike in August. Investors evaluate probability of such move at 40%.

More people visited pubs and gardens in May, and food sales rose prior to the wedding in Royal Family.

However, retailers are still struggling to survive among lower living standards, higher costs and threats from online sellers.

John Lewis Partnership, owner of department stores chain and grocers, announced 1,5% sales growth this years. Last year it was 2,7% increase at the same time of the year. Marks & Spencer Group Plc, closes more than 100 big stores.