Sales at Marks & Spencer have continued to slide over recent weeks, figures released by the retailer showed today.
Total sales over the first quarter of the year fell 2.6 per cent below the same period last year despite the chain's efforts to revive its fortunes.
Like-for-like sales fell by 3.4 per cent over the same period, the 14 weeks to July 7.
M&S said clothing, gift and footwear sales were 9.1 per cent down, while its home business also suffered.
Home furnishing sales fell 1.5 per cent in the first quarter after poor furniture sales following the firm's decision to close its Direct catalogue business.
However food sales remained strong, rising by 5.9 per cent.
The figures are likely to increase the pressure on M&S' chief executive and chairman Mr Luc Vandevelde, who will meet shareholders at the company's annual meeting later today.
PA