CONSUMER confidence in the UK has surged to its highest level in nine years after rising for a fifth successive quarter, a survey by market analyst Nielsen has found.

The number of consumers feeling positive about their job prospects for the eighth quarter in a row to 45 per cent. The figure is the highest in seven and a half years, according to Nielsen's global survey of consumer confidence and spending intentions.

Those stating that they believe the UK to be in recession fell for the eighth quarter in a row to 51 per cent, the lowest level since the survey began seven years ago.

Meanwhile, the number of people feeling positive about their personal finance rose by five points to 50 per cent, the highest level since the third quarter of 2007.