The high street clawed back ground in July boosted by the sunny weather and Lionesses' triumph.
Sales volumes were up 0.6 per cent over the month, a stronger performance than most analysts had expected.
However, levels were down by the same proportion over three months, as Brits continue to struggle with cost of living pressures.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said online retailers helped drive the uplift, in July with retailers citing sunshine, new product ranges and the football tournament for attracting more trade.
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