Soldering products manufacturer, Oglesby & Butler, has reported pre-tax profits of £256,000 for the six months to September 30th on turnover of £2.03 million. This is up from £236,000 for the corresponding period last year. The company says that new products which are currently being tested will increase sales next year.

The main product is a glue gun for use by craftsmen in the construction industry; the other is the company's patented thermostat.

The company's chairman, Mr Nevin Dowling, said the volatility of world markets was a cause of concern for the company.

Post-tax profit has decreased from £234,000 to £139,000, with earnings per share up from 2.1p to 2.24p.