British fashion retailer French Connection Group reported a drop in profit for the half-year due to the closure of some of its stores.

Blaney Motor Company launched two new wheel loader concepts on its stand at Balmoral Show last month.

French Connection has warned of more big losses after its UK sales remained in decline in the wake of softer trading in the run-up to Christmas.

Fashion retailer French Connection Group, which has outlets in Ireland, has reported a half-year loss and said it expected to stay in the red for the full year, sending its shares down as much as 23%.