Supermarket chain Tesco saw sales over the festive period rise 6.2 per cent, helped by higher sales of champagne, DVDs and kitchen appliances.

The group, which has nine stores in Oxfordshire, said Christmas sales volumes were strong, with 25 per cent more champagne sold than last year, while home entertainment saw a jump in sales of DVDs and video tapes.

Sales of microwaves were 50 per cent up on the previous year, while sales of other kitchen appliances such as toasters jumped 200 per cent.

The announcement follows Sainsbury's 6.8 per cent reported sales leap in the six weeks to January 5.

Meanwhile, rival Somerfield showed its recovery programme was firmly on track after moving back into the black.

It follows a tough period for the retailer, which has been hit by falling sales and profits following the costly integration of budget retailer Kwik Save.

But today Somerfield, which has more than 1,300 stores across the UK, was able to report sales growth.

For the 28 weeks to November 10, underlying sales in Somerfield stores were up 2.5 per cent, while Kwik Save saw a 3.5 per cent improvement.

The improved demand saw Somerfield report interim pre-tax profits of £2.5m compared with a £21.7m loss last year. Turnover improved from £2.40bn to £2.49bn.

The chain launched a five-year recovery plan 18 months ago, and chairman John von Spreckelsen said it was on course to meet that deadline.