A strong performance by Screwfix provided some consolation for Kingfisher's departing boss today after the DIY chain was hit by poor trading in France.

Sir Ian Cheshire, who steps down on December 8 after seven years at the helm of the B&Q owner, reported an 11.8% fall in retail profits to £225 million for the 13 weeks to November 1 as sales slipped 3.6% to £2.8 billion.

Profits in France slumped by 14% to £120 million but the figure was up 11.1% to £70 million in the UK and Ireland after like-for-like sales rose 2.6% on the back of a stronger British economy and a more resilient housing market.

Screwfix was the star performer with like-for-like sales up 13.1% as it took advantage of a strong promotional programme, new ranges and stores and the roll-out of its click-and-collect service. Total sales at Screwfix jumped 25%.

Kingfisher is Europe's biggest home improvement retail group and runs 1,176 stores across 11 countries in Europe and Asia under brands such as Castorama and Brico Depot.

Sir Ian is to be replaced by the group's Castorama boss Veronique Laury, who will become one of the few women to lead a FTSE 100 firm.

Sir Ian said: "Trading conditions in our largest and most significant market, France, were particularly difficult and deteriorated across the quarter, impacted by the weak economic backdrop."

"In the UK however, where conditions have been more favourable, we have delivered like-for-like growth with Screwfix performing particularly well, delivering a 25% increase in sales on top of very strong growth last year."

B&Q like-for-like sales in the UK and Ireland edged up 0.5%, with the group adding that volume sales have been driven by price cuts and clearance activity.

Sales of outdoor seasonal and building products were up around 3%, while indoor products excluding kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms lifted 1%.

Ms Laury said: "I am delighted to be succeeding Sir Ian. He leaves a strong, and more sustainable business with a clear sense of purpose."

"With more than 26 years in home improvement, and 11 years at Kingfisher, I know our employees and our businesses well and I understand the reality of our customers' lives."

She added that Marc Tenart would succeed her as chief executive of Castorama France. Mr Tenart joined the group 14 years ago, and has held senior roles at Castorama France and was previously chief executive of its Brico Depot business in Spain.