Retail sales last month suffered their biggest slump for more than 20 years.

The Office for National Statistics said the retail sales volumes fell 3.9 per cent between May and June.

It is the largest decrease since records began in January 1986.

The slump followed a 3.5 per cent sunny-weather inspired sales leap seen the previous month.

Clothing and footwear shops were the worst hit in June, with sales down 6.9 per cent.

Food sales also fell 3.6 per cent, the biggest drop since record began.