The UK economy grew by more than expected in February, according to the latest official figures.

The economy expanded by 0.5%, with the services sector having a strong month, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Economists had predicted growth of just 0.1%, but the ONS said several factors contributed to the surprise rise which was driven by a boost in manufacturing and production, the BBC reported.

The better-than-expected figures come as the UK economy braces itself for the impact of tariffs imposed on goods being imported to the US, with analysts warning that growth could prove short-lived.

The UK is subject to the blanket 10% tariff on nearly all of its goods being brought into the US, which is expected to hit British exporters and also affect economic growth.

The government has made growing the UK economy its top priority in its effort to improve living standards.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves called the latest growth figures an "encouraging sign", but added the government was "not complacent".

"We must go further and faster to kickstart economic growth, provide security for working people and put more money in their pockets," she added.

She said the government would "remain pragmatic and cool-headed" in its efforts to secure a trade deal with the US.

Alongside the better-than-expected growth, the ONS revised up its figure for January from a contraction of 0.1% to no growth.

But February's figure comes ahead of the impact of tax rises on businesses and household energy and water bill increases on the economy, along with US tariffs.