THERE has been much talk of an improvement in the UK's economy, but most of the feel-good factor seems to have been confined to the south east.

Now, though, there is tangible evidence that the whole country is benefiting with York housebuilder Persimmon reporting a 44 per cent rise in profits.

The company's board puts this fantastic achievement down to an improved supply of mortgages at 'compelling interest rates' and with UK inflation at a record low of 0.3 per cent, and expected to turn negative in the coming months, the Bank of England is under no pressure to raise rates, despite the economic recovery.

All of which is good news for house buyers and very good news indeed for those who work for Persimmon.