London’s blue chip share index staged a sharp recovery today after a smaller-than-expected £25bn (€27.9bn) money boost from the Bank of England.

The London market soared 2% to a fresh 10-month high today as shares rallied for a fourth session in a row.

The FTSE 100 Index finished ahead for the first time this week as sentiment was given a tentative boost by more upbeat corporate and economic news today.

London’s FTSE 100 Index stormed more than 3.4% ahead today despite news that the UK economy had suffered its sharpest contraction in 30 years.

The London market held firm today despite sharp falls on Wall Street amid grim US housing and employment news.

The FTSE 100 Index ended the day almost 2% down today as the worst snow in 20 years meant thin trading volumes in London.

Halifax Bank of Scotland enjoyed a rare day in the sun today as it was buoyed by renewed confidence over its takeover by Lloyds TSB.

The FTSE 100 Index sunk into the red today as inflation concerns continued to hit world markets.

The London market finished on the front foot today buoyed by a positive start across the Atlantic while Standard Life drew plenty of buying interest during its first session over here.

Standard Life overcame a sluggish session for the London market as shares in the insurer made progress on their first day of trading.