Beer giant InBev today said the UK remained its most challenging market in western Europe, despite sales of Stella Artois recovering over the summer.

JJB Sports warned today that it may launch a price war on the high street to encourage shoppers to start spending again.

Bookmaker William Hill today said it had been boosted by more sporting results going in its favour in recent weeks.

Sportswear firm Umbro celebrated its first year as a stock market-listed company by reporting record sales and profits today.

About 119,000 students begin the Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate exams today in 4,600 centres across the country.