Sportswear firm JD Sports Fashion today confirmed it is close to landing “certain assets” of the ailing retailer Blacks Leisure.

JD Sports Fashion delivered another set of market-beating results today after the retail chain increased half-year profits by 36% to £19.3m (€22.9m).

Retailer JD Sports Fashion today boasted a 26% rise in annual profits as it sailed clear of recession - but warned of "increasing challenges" ahead.

Sportswear firm JD Sports Fashion today announced it had rescued the European arm of rugby shirts firm Canterbury, raising hopes that it will resurrect some of the firm’s sponsorship deals.