UTV pleased with static performance

UTV Media chief executive John McCann yesterday said he was pleased with the Belfast-based broadcasting group’s static performance for last year, given the downturn in the advertising market and wider economy.

UTV yesterday reported pre-tax profits of £20.3 million (€22m) for 2008, down marginally from £20.8m in the previous year.

Group operating profit was unchanged at £28.1m, but group turnover was up by 6% on 2007’s level, reaching £120.3m.