FTSE powers to six-month high

The FTSE leapt to a six-month high on Thursday thanks to bumper corporate results across Europe and the US and a strong showing from miners.

Shortly before midday, London's leading index was 45 points, or 0.8%, higher at 5,774.36. It peaked at 5,776.10, its highest level since late April.

It follows yesterday's gain of 0.4%, as UK investors continue to appear unfazed by the Spending Review.

Intercontinental Hotels Group has advanced 4% with BT Group, Diageo, Anglo American and British Airways also gaining.

Miners, including Anglo American and Rio Tinto, profited following a rise in metal prices, while strong earnings results and positive data from China indicated an upturn in the global economy.

London's gains were mirrored throughout Europe, with Germany's Dax up 0.8% and France's Cac advancing nearly 1%.