Car dealership Lookers today reported a 10% drop in private new-car sales as plummeting consumer confidence weighed on the business.

The Manchester-based group, which operates 119 dealerships, said overall new-car sales were up 2% but this was boosted by a 30% surge in fleet sales between July 1 and October 27.

Elsewhere, the group, which sells marques such as Land Rover, Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan and Toyota, said used car sales were slightly higher than last year, while aftersales revenues were flat.

The company said: "The new and used car markets continue to be affected by uncertain economic conditions and the impact this has on consumer confidence."