Consumer confidence has risen by two points in December, according to the latest figures from a GfK index.
Despite the positive movement, the number remains firmly in negative territory at -22. This is up from -29 a year ago, however.
The major purchase index, a mark of confidence in buying big-ticket items, rose by one point to -23.
The firm said the persistent movement back towards a positive number was an encouraging sign and should provide some cheer for retailers.
