Book of Records company posts 36% rise in profits

The popularity of Guinness World Records has helped Gullane Entertainment post increased half-year profits.

In the last six months of 2001, pre-tax profits before one-off costs increased by 36% to £6.3m (€10.1m).

Turnover rose to £31.6m (€51.1m), from £19.3m (€31.2m) last time.

Gullane says growth was achieved by a solid performance from Guinness World Records and the continued development of Thomas the Tank Engine, Art Attack and Sooty.

The company also bought a 50% interest in Fireman Sam in December, 2001.

Gullane says it's also set to benefit from the launch of Yoko! Jakamoko! Toto!, a new children's animation series commissioned by cITV.

Chief executive William Harris says: "Whilst we remain conscious of the difficult economic climate in the markets in which we operate, we believe that Gullane Entertainment has strong prospects for the balance of the year and beyond.

"Trading news for the second half of the year remains positive."