Wet weather in July dampens UK economy

The UK economy shrank in July as wet weather hit the construction and retail industries, according to official figures.

Strike action by healthcare workers and teachers also led to the economy contracting by 0.5%, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

The figures were worse than analysts had predicted and continue a trend of weak economic growth in the UK.

But the ONS said the "broader picture" for the country looked "more positive".

Darren Morgan, director of economic statistics at the ONS, said that while July saw the economy shrink, output across the services, production and construction sectors was growing in the three months to July.

He said despite the UK being hit by strike action and poor weather this summer, "a busy schedule of sporting events and increased theme park visits provided a slight boost" to the economy.