interim statement six months ended july 2006 chairman s next has made further progress in a turbulent retail market with earnings per share moving forward by 11 3 the first half this been achieved continued development of brand efficiency improvements within group and increasing financial leverage through reducing number shares issue we believe that clear focus on design value efficient delivery our products both stores directory continues to be strategy which will deliver best returns shareholders i have impressed resilience shown producing these results am confident management team is well prepared face challenging conditions lie ahead john barton chief executive review introduction increased operating profits 5 8 despite very difficult trading an excellent performance combined good cost control across more than compensated for disappointing moved as result buybacks are
