Car production returned to growth last month with more than 120,000 vehicles built in the UK - 1.8% up on a year ago, new figures showed today.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said 120,036 vehicles were produced in June, boosting the numbers for the year to date to 662,852.

That is an increase of 4.1% on the same time last year.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said the figures revealed a "welcome return to growth" for the UK's motor industry.