John Doyle turnover up 43%

The revenue figure is 43% up on the £44.8m it reported in 2007, albeit below the £72m originally targeted. It comes despite the downturn and a large restructuring of the business last November, in which Rob Johnson, the group’s chief executive, was replaced by chairman Stef Stefanou, and rapid expansion plans dropped.

Paul Nurton, managing director, said the firm had “curtailed” operations in north-west England after problems with two contracts. He said: “By going back to our roots we have reduced our costs and can now offer high quality product at a value price.”