School gear is cheapest ever

The cost of school uniforms has fallen again this year and is now lower than ever, according to new research.

Prices have tumbled over the past six years because retailers have vied with each other.

The average price of a standard uniform has fallen by almost 21 per cent since 2004, while some uniforms, such as those for 13-year-old boys, have dropped to as little as 28.

Neil Saunders, consulting director of researchers Verdict, said: "It's an important market financially but also psychologically - those that offer low prices are seen as giving a helping hand to hard-pressed parents."