THE H&H Group has announced improved profits and turnover for the last six months of 2016.

In results published today the firm - which has its headquarters in Rosehill, Carlisle, and operations throughout the county - said its livestock business had performed particularly strongly.

An increased turnover of £7.9m represents an increase of 11 per cent over the same period in 2015, up from £7.1m. Profits before tax are also up to £805,000 from £340,000.

The group’s average share price has risen from £26.48 to £27.85 for the same period in 2015.

Brian Richardson, chief executive of the H&H Group, said: “These results show a good improvement in profitability of the group with particularly strong performance from our livestock mart business, with a strong cattle trade countering some challenging returns for sheep producers. It is now almost 18 months since the acquisition of the John Swan business in the Borders and the integration has gone well, with a very positive response from customers.”

Land agency H&H Land and Property has performed well and as it continues to develop its geographical coverage in the north of England and southern Scotland. A new centre at Newtown St Boswells, Roxburghshire, opened in the period, providing a platform for further growth in that area.

With a total of four branches, the H&H Estate Agency side of the business has seen a slowing of the property market, with uncertainty over Brexit. Signs of improved market growth and an increase in sales are beginning to emerge though

H&H Insurance Brokers has also seen challenging market conditions and the company are reviewing how they adapt.

The print business has had an improved period, showing an increased profitability.

Mr Richardson added: “Overall this is a pleasing set of results and we continue to have confidence in developing the business in the future, with further structural improvements, developments in the Borders, and the development of the Rosehill car park site, which should commence later in the year.”