THE Manchester-based Co-operative Group is reporting a boost in sales and profits for the year ending in January.

Income across the world's largest consumer co-operative, which includes farms, finance, funerals and food, was up by nearly £2.5bn at £7.8bn.

Profits were up from £165.8m to £231.4m and the Co-op says store refits and promoting its convenience and ethical stance helped boost profits.

The society also pledged to continue its acquisitive strategy.