The updated figures from the Office for National Statistics showed that the UK's dominant services sector, which accounts for three quarters of national output, drove the recovery - growing 0.6pc over the three months.

China's manufacturing is contracting in May for the first time in seven months, adding to signs that economic growth is losing steam for a second quarter.

Thursday 10.30 BST. Global stocks are in sharp retreat, led by a savage plunge in Tokyo, as traders are spooked by the prospect of reduced central bank support and a slowing Chinese economy.

The company sold its slots at the London airport to Easyjet for �20m, blaming an increase in airport charges. Flybe said it would continue all flights between the islands and other UK airports.

Halfords Group Plc (HFD), the U.K.'s biggest seller of bicycles, fell the most ever after announcing a surprise dividend reduction to boost investment in training workers, revamping stores and improving its Web business.