The London markets jumped higher as strong showings by airliners and hospitality stocks boosted the FTSE.
Early trading was cautious, initially ticking lower, before a confident start to trading in the US helped to spark a broad global rebound in sentiment.
The FTSE 100 closed 33.03 points, or 0.5%, higher at 6,658.97 at the close of play on Wednesday.
Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said: “European markets have had a much better tone today after a rather mixed session yesterday. What hasn’t changed is the underlying tone for travel and leisure stocks which are continuing to build on their recent gains with another strong session.”
The European markets were also significantly boosted by strong opening on Wall Street following a tough start to the week across the Atlantic.
Connor Campbell, financial analyst at Spreadex, said: “The Dow Jones was back in the hunt for a record close this Wednesday, shaking off a lacklustre few sessions…