HIGH street sales growth fell in June, with clothing retailers bearing the brunt of customers tightening their spending, a report has said.

The CBI distributive trades survey says clothing sales dropped for the first time since January.

Annual sales for grocers also slowed, though specialist food and drink sales did marginally rise.

The report added its expects sales to pick up again next month.

Barry Williams, chairman of the CBI distributive trades survey panel, said: “After an improved run for the high street, a fall in clothing and food sales has contributed to a disappointing month.

“While it seems that hopes that retail spending would be boosted by a strong performance by England at the World Cup, I’m reassured consumer confidence is still on the up, as household budgets are being bolstered by falling inflation.

“However, slow wage growth continues to weigh on how much consumers are willing to go out and spend.”