by Trevor Sturgess

Cold weather has sent snow boots and wellies walking off the shelves at John Lewis - along with some luxury goods.

In an upbeat Christmas Eve report that reflects a last-minute consumer spending spurge, the store chain said snow boot sales had trebled and wellington boot sales were up 160 per cent. The cold snap also triggered soaring sales of high tog duvets - up 42 per cent.

Many customers seem to be anticipating a stay-at-home Christmas, with a pair of slippers being sold every two minutes.

Nat Wakely, director of selling operations, said it had been a “cracking” Christmas. “Sales from Sunday to close of business on Wednesday are 27 per cent ahead of 2008 levels. We have seen superb sales of last-minute gifts, in particular in beauty, lingerie and gift food.”

Strong sellers have been Sony eBooks - up 36 per cent - and kitchen radios - up 26 per cent.

Champagne truffles are proving a popular last-minute gift, with sales up 56 per cent on last year. Designer lingerie sales are up 115 per cent, with purple and red the most popular colours.

The store chain’s clearance starts online at 6pm Christmas Eve and in shops, including Bluewater, from December 27.