Barclays shares rise in early trading

In London, shares in Barclays moved higher in opening trade thanks to the wider optimism on the European markets.

Gains were limited by cautious comment on the appointment of John Varley as the new chief executive, dealers said.

Varley is currently the group finance director.

He will replace Matt Barrett, the Kerry-born and Kells-educated chief executive of Barclays, who is to become the next chairman of the British bank.