FTSE 100 hits 8,000 points for first time as recession fears ease

The FTSE 100 hit its first record high in more than four years in early February. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA

Britain’s FTSE 100 share index has passed 8,000 points for the first time, as fears of a global recession ease.

In an afternoon surge, the index of the largest 100 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange hit 8,003.65 points, a new record.