Pub group Enterprise Inns has revealed “positive progress” as its profits rose to £47 million before tax in the six months to March 31st, compared to £29 million the previous year.

Commenting on the results, Simon Townsend, CEO said: "I am pleased to be able to report positive progress for the business with like-for-like net income growth in the first half of the year and am particularly encouraged to see this translate into growth in earnings per share.

“Our focus continues to be on the implementation of actions that will sustain our improving trading performance and drive value for our Publicans, which include the further enhancement of our pub estate and the provision of exceptional local support.

“Whilst the latter part of the year will be measured against tougher comparatives, I am confident that through our activities to support Publicans to grow their businesses we will achieve our target of like-for-like net income growth for the full financial year."