Improved US data injects life into London trading

LONDON shares finally kicked into life yesterday as better-than-expected economic data in the United States rubbed off on investors.

The City had been in subdued mood until the afternoon data provided traders with the inspiration they had lacked earlier in the week.

Buoyed by improved purchasing managers’ figures, the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 200 points by the time of London’s close and in turn helped the Footsie finish 73.2 points ahead at 4144.2.