Christie's profits soar following strong demand for services

Christie Group saw revenues and profits move ahead in the first half of its trading year as its services remained in demand from commercial audiences.

The professional business services group grew revenues 10% over the six months ended on 30 June to £38.4m, leading to an 81.8% leap in operating profits to £2m.

Earnings per share soared from 1.53p a piece to 5.18p and the group increased its interim dividend per share from 1p to 1.25p.

David Rugg, Christie's chairman and chief executive, said: "The first half saw progress in performance and our services remain in demand from sophisticated commercial audiences."

The AIM-quoted group, which has 44 offices across the UK, Europe and Canada, saw revenues from its Professional Business Services division climb 11.9% to £21.6m thanks to an enhanced performance from its international operations.

Christie also assured investors it had an increased pipeline of current and ongoing projects.

As of 1145 BST, Christie shares had gained 3.82% to 136p.