SALES of Bulmer's cider grew by 4% in the six months to the end of August, outperforming the rest of the alcohol market, which has seen volumes decline because of the smoking ban and a shift to drinking at home.

THE makers of Bulmers cider are forecasting a 4% increase in turnover in the six months to August 31.

EUROPEAN markets were lower yesterday and the ISEQ index followed, falling 13.84 points to 5161.77.

Troubled tour operator MyTravel today called on the services of a turnaround specialist to fill the post of chief financial officer.

The FTSE 100 Index closed up sharply today trumping earlier fears of another downbeat session.