RECENT downpours have sent shoppers rushing to buy new umbrellas, a retailer said today.

Sales at Asda stores nationwide rose by 1,173 per cent last week compared with the same time last year.

Demand during the recent wet patch exceeded mid-winter levels, causing the chain to extend its umbrella season.

Shoppers have also snapped up Wellingtons and rainproof coats, according to Asda.

The chain's umbrella buyer Mark Bramley said: "We've never seen anything like it. Our umbrella sales are going through the roof and it's almost summer.

"Normally we'd be reducing our umbrella range at this time of year because demand usually drops. However we're having to extend the season for the very first time to meet customer demand."