Van and truck registrations were down by 4.4% in July to 236,629 for the rolling year, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

There were 17,309 vans registered in July, which equated to a 0.1% increase to 204,514 units for the rolling year.

However, only 2,760 trucks were registered in July, which was a fall of 25.8% to 32,115 units for the rolling year.

But when July’s figures are compared to June’s registrations, it makes better reading for the industry.

There was a 25.2% increase in vans registered in July compared to June. That brings the year to date total to 124,579 units, which when compared to the first seven months of 2009 is an increase of 17%.

Meanwhile, the number of trucks registered in July at 2,760 units was a 9.1% increase on June’s figures.

“July was another surprisingly good month for vans, with useful growth,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “Truck registrations are up too, but against a very poor month last year.

“Whilst the forecast for 2011 is more positive, the prospects for the rest of the year are gloomy and we expect a near record low for trucks. Fragile consumer and business confidence make the outlook for the next 18 months challenging.”