New car sales in the UK fell sharply last month, denting hopes that 2004 would prove another record year for the industry. Sales fell 5.9% - the worst percentage fall for October since 1992 - to just under 171,000 units, leaving the total for the year so far down 0.2%. Sales to private buyers slumped by more than 13%.

Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Christopher Macgowan said the market was still running parallel with last year's record and December would prove the decisive month.