Fresh consumer spending data suggest that Ireland's recovery has trickled down to the high street - there was a 5.6% increase in spending during August, compared to 12 months earlier, as shoppers spent more on household goods and entertainment.

This was down slightly on the 6.5% increase recorded in July - it's the 12th month in a row in which year-on-year spending increases have been recorded according to the Visa Europe Irish Consumer Spending Index.

During the month spending increased across all eight sectors which are monitored by the monthly survey.

Spending on household goods increased by 11.9% while the amount of money spent in restaurants, bars and hotels was 10.9% higher - spending on other recreational activities also rose by 9.4%. Households also spent 9.3% more on clothing and footwear during the month.

Online shopping has continued to become more popular, it is up by 10.2% since 12 months ago. 'Offline' spending increased by 3.7%.

The index is based on transactions made using Visa debit, credit and prepaid cards.