Equipment rental specialist VP PLC (LON:VP.) accompanied record profits with a bullish update on current year trading.
A first contribution from Brandon Hire, acquired in November for £69mln, helped underlying profit jump 16% to £40.6mln on revenues 22% higher at £303.6mln.
Dividend up 18%
VP also reported an improvement in its international operation following the recent oil price rise.
Neil Stothard, chief executive, said: "The start to the new financial year has been positive.
“We anticipate that our core UK markets will continue to provide a strong platform for future growth to our UK division.
“Internationally we do see some recovery in the oil and gas segment and a supportive Australian economy.“
The dividend for the year rises by 18% to 26p.