More people are ordering parcel deliveries from online retailers than at any times in the past two years, according to the latest figures from the IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index.

Buoyed by sunny weather and the prospect of the forthcoming World Cup, shoppers spent a total of £4.5 billion online during May, an increase of 22 per cent compared with the same month last year.

The World Cup influence was evidenced by online shoppers stocking up on beer, wines and spirits, which jumped by 23 per cent compared with 2009, through online channels.

Clothes were also popular as higher temperatures made Brits reconsider their wardrobes - some 32 per cent more was spent ordering parcel deliveries full of new togs.

"Summer weather and World Cup frenzy have led to a surge in online deliveries of clothes and electrical goods," said Mark Lewis, former managing director of eBay UK and chief executive of parcel pick-up service Collect+.

"Consumers know they can often get the best deals online and retailers that offer choice, flexibility and clear and simple services will have won that battle for the custom and loyalty of internet shoppers."