MOTHERCARE was last night the latest retailer to reveal a dismal festive trading period.

The high street store said that for the 13-weeks to January 7, total UK store sales were down by 0.6 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Like-for-like sales were down by 0.8 per cent.

Despite poor sales, Mothercare said margins for the full year were expected to be in line with expectations.

A spokeswoman said: "Our winter sale is going well, with end of season stock levels being tightly controlled and clearing in line with our plan.

"Our operating costs have been successfully managed and will be better than anticipated for the second half-year."

Ben Gordon, chief executive, said: "Our overall performance is resilient in the tougher trading environment. Our underlying gross margins continue to improve.

"We went on sale in accordance with our plans for the Christmas period and have managed our seasonal stock levels well. In addition, we have kept a tight control on costs. The business is in good shape going forward and we are confident of making further progress."

Mothercare expects to make a statement on March 31, ahead of its preliminary results announcement for the year to March 26.