Homeware retailer, Dunelm, has seen a fall in first-quarter sales.

Sales for the 13 weeks to October 1 were down eight per cent to £357m against last year, when people spent more on home improvements during Covid lockdowns.

Revenue was up 36 per cent against pre-pandemic levels, as reported by Retail Gazette.

Despite tough trading conditions, Dunelm, which has stores in Gloucester and Cheltenham, has described trading as "robust".

Digital sales accounted for a third of the retailer's total sales, in line with the previous year.

Dunelm said it had already seen a "very good response" to its winter products, including blankets and curtains.

The retailer confirmed its commitment to "making every pound count" during a challenging winter for consumers, by keeping a tight grip on operations.