Some 2.7 million Blu-ray discs were sold in the first quarter of this year, 50 per cent more than during the same period of 2009.

It brings the total number Blu-ray discs sold since the format was launched here to 15.6m.

Figures released today by the British Video Association (BVA) revealed strong year-on-year growth for the home entertainment market.

“While it is fantastic to see such strong growth in market volumes in the run up to Easter, the performance of Blu-ray is especially impressive,” said BVA marketing manager Hannah Conduct.

“Growing sales show that the benefits of the format – higher picture quality, superior sound, and an ever-expanding range of titles – are better understood than ever before. The strong sales reflect consumer confidence in Blu-ray.”