Retail sales in Bermuda have recorded their biggest monthly jump since before the start of the economic downturn of 2008, jumping to $107.7 million in December.

That represents a 6.3 per cent jump in the total retail sales index before inflation, compared to December 2013.

The largest increase by sector was a 59.2 per cent increase in sales of motor vehicles.

All sectors registered an increase in sales, apart from service stations which had a six per cent decrease.

Returning residents declared overseas purchases of $7.5 million in December, bringing the combined total of on-Island and overseas spending to $115.2 million.

It is five years since Bermuda has recorded a month with a higher total of retail sales. In December 2009 the figure was $110.1 million.