Inflation in surprise jump to 10.4% in February

The cost of living unexpectedly increased last month after three consecutive months of easing, driven by dining out and food price rises.

Inflation, which measures the increase in the price of something over time, jumped to 10.4% in the year to February from 10.1% in January.

Food costs rose at their fastest rate for 45 years with higher costs for some salads and vegetables in particular.