British new car registrations in June rose by 12.9 per cent year-on-year to 257,817 vehicles, which marked the best half-year performance on record, an industry body said yesterday.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said the increase meant sales were up by seven per cent in the first six months of the year, although it expected slower growth later this year.

The SMMT said low interest rates, attractive finance deals and a wealth of new models had encouraged consumers to buy new cars.