Cash point

Budget fashion chain Bonmarché blamed Brexit and the economy after profits dived nearly 40% in the year to April.

The company, which targets women aged over 50, said the EU referendum and inflation dented shopping habits as earnings fell to £5.8million. Boss Helen Connolly insisted it was “well positioned” for growth. More than half of first time buyers over the past five years regret not negotiating on the asking price.

One in five ended up paying more,