TK Maxx has bucked the current downbeat trend among high street retailers to post higher sales and profits on the back of a raft of new openings.

Shares in Sports Direct International plunged after its auditor quit without a replacement, heightening corporate governance concerns at the retailer controlled by billionaire Mike Ashley.

A turnaround in the fortunes and occupancy levels of Cork city’s premier retail boulevard Patrick Street is predicted in the next year, with significant national international brand names set to arrive and take significant floor space.

Private school boys Mumford and Sons continue exploration of folk music on sophomore album, says Ed Power