The strongest sign yet that the British economy could begin its recovery before the end of the year came recently as the key services sector showed growth for the first time in over 12 months. A survey conducted by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) showed an activity index reading of 51.7 in May, the first time this sector has pulled into positive territory since April last year. The return to growth for the sector which makes up about 70 per cent of the economy has given a major boost to hopes for stabilisation in the economy. The index's rise above the crucial 50 mark with a score above that level signalling growth could indicate a mild recovery by the years end.