Morrisons has announced a third consecutive quarter of like-for-like sales growth as its turnaround continues.

Announcing its first half interim results, the Big Four retailer reported a 2.0% increase in like-for-like second quarter sales and an 11.3% rise in pre-tax profits to £157m in the six months to 31 July.

It said consumer grocery spending had not been affected by Brexit and that its priorities to become more competitive and improve the shopping experience had not changed.

Chief executive David Potts said: “We are pleased with positive like-for-like sales and 11% underlying profit growth in the first half. Our priorities are unchanged. We have made improvements to the shopping trip for customers and we plan to do more.

“I would like to thank the entire Morrisons team of food makers and shopkeepers who are working very hard to Fix, Rebuild and Grow Morrisons. This turnaround opportunity is in our own hands and I am confident we will succeed.”

It said its new product ranges were proving successful, such as its improved range of meal solutions which saw a sales rise of 9% during the period.