Clinical trials group Icon has reported strong sales growth in its first quarter ending August 31st, with net revenues up 38 per cent to $36.2 million (€39.25 million) while pre-tax profits in the period rose from $3 million to $4.44 million. Earnings per share rose from $0.22 to $0.29.

Chief executive Dr John Climax said: "With over 80 per cent of the next 12 months' revenues in booked and awarded business and with our laboratory business beginning to make a worthwhile contribution to income, I believe fiscal 2002 is shaping up for another excellent year for Icon barring any unforeseen impacts arising from the recent tragic events in the US."