The used market looks set to finish 2016 with a healthy supply of cars matched by healthy demand from buyers, who are keen to purchase stock during a buoyant Christmas and New Year trading period.

Remarketing group Aston Barclay says vendors are preparing to sell right up to the festive break and buyers are keen to stock up - ready for strong retail demand over Christmas.

“Last year, used car dealers experienced a strong December with buyers coming out in their droves in the days between Christmas and New Year,” explained Martin Potter, group operations director at Aston Barclay Group.

“Buyers are hoping for a similar situation in 2016 with the Christmas period stretching over two weekend periods and want to have stock ready for another positive festive season. If this does not materialise, dealers will still be well placed with stock for the start of 2017.”