Upbeat results see share prices surge

A WAVE of more upbeat company results and economic data have stoked a summer surge in British share prices and should keep them on the rise in the coming months — albeit at a less sizzling pace.

Investors will be looking for WPP Group to reinforce the rising optimism when it reports results next Friday, as the world’s third biggest advertising firm is one of the most exposed blue chips to revival in the economy.

Several analysts and investors said the FTSE looked primed to extend gains, although it could struggle to build momentum until trading volume picks up in September.