Global economic downturn fears prompt high street gloom

Separate surveys find October sales undershot expectations, while shoppers are more uncertain on whether it is a good time for major purchases

Worries about a global downturn have knocked consumer confidence with retail sales losing momentum over recent weeks, according to the latest reports signalling a slowdown in the UK economy.

October marked a five-month low on a barometer of consumer mood from the market research group GfK, while a separate survey of retailers by the business group CBI showed sales had undershot expectations following a strong September.

Related: GDP growth in the UK slows more than expected to 0.5%