Bookies’ profits take hit

IRELAND’S largest independent bookmaker, Boylesports has reported a sharp dip in profits in its last trading period.

In the 78 weeks to December 28, 2008, the results show profit fell to €7.6 million from €12.3m. Because of a change in its year-end, the previous results covered the 53 weeks to the end of June 2007.

The results show major growth in turnover as the group continued to expand its online and bookie operations with total sales rising to over €1.1 billion from €630m in the previous 12-month period.