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Historic family-owned jewellery giant Beaverbrooks has hailed its "phenomenal performance" on the first day of trading after the latest Covid-19 restrictions were lifted in England earlier this week, with its sales almost doubling compared to the same trading day in April 2019.

The Lancashire-headquartered high street retailer's sales were nearly 100% higher than April 12, 2019, the company’s centenary and most profitable year.

Beaverbrooks saw an increase of 41% on July 2020's reopening and 44% on December's following the previous two lockdowns.

The retailer added that there was a 60% increase in average transaction value on jewellery and watches while there was a 116% increase in customer visits compared to typical trading day in April 2019.

The company added that it is "cautiously optimistic" for a continued increase in customer demand for physical retail.

Managing director Anna Blackburn said: "Given the positive trading we experienced when we reopened after each lockdown last year, we expected to see this reflected in sales and footfall when we reopened our doors this week.

"While we saw strong performance online throughout lockdown, the response from customers has demonstrated that there is absolutely still demand for a personal in-store shopping experience, particularly when it comes to sentimental items and considered purchases such as gifts.

"As restrictions continue to ease and the hope of larger scale weddings and events return, we also expect an increase in bridal jewellery and engagement ring sales, as well as our core gifting categories which have continued to perform well.