Sportswear retailer JD Sports Fashion has announced an increase in its full year pre-tax profits after its core sports fascias helped to deliver a year of "substantial" progress.

JD said its sports fascias had produced a record result and an increase of 5% to £57.9 million in its core markets in the UK and Ireland. The group also made good progress in Europe thanks to new store openings in the new territories of the Netherlands and Germany.

Peter Cowgill, JD Sports executive chairman, said: "I am delighted to report that our core sports fascias delivered another year of substantial progress. It is particularly pleasing that they have produced a record result in our core markets in the UK and Ireland. These businesses continue to provide the foundation for profit and expansion in the group. We have also seen very positive developments for our sport fascias in Europe.

"I am encouraged that the Blacks and Millets business achieved a significant improvement in the second half of the year and we expect continued progress in the new financial year."

He added: "The group continues to be well positioned with its retail proposition, increased financial resources and extensive management experience to take advantage of opportunities both in the UK and internationally."