FTSE boosted by M&S success

Marks & Spencer led the FTSE 100 Index forward today with a stellar performance as strong half-year figures from the resurgent retailer sent its shares to a record high.

Shares topped £7 for a spell before dropping back to close at 698p – a gain of 6% or 41.5p – as the City welcomed a 32% rise in first half profits to £405.1 million.