AMSTERDAM, Dec 18 - Dutch October cash retail sales declined for the eighth consecutive month in October, falling 3.2 percent from the year-ago period after a 3.7 percent fall in September, data showed on Thursday. The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) said in a statement that in particular turnover of non-food stores -- which account for 60 percent of total Dutch retail sales -- declined, while food and beverages retailers saw sales rise in October. Non-food retail sales fell by 6.6 percent on the year in cash terms and turnover of food retailers rose 4.4 percent. Data released in October showed consumer confidence that month fell to minus 36 points from minus 34 in September although the willingess to purchase durable goods such as televisions, computers and refirigerators had improved. In November, consumer confidence improved again to minus 30 points, its best level this year. Dutch consumer confidence is hit by rising unemployment and economic uncertainty but economists expect consumer spending will improve in the course of 2004.||