A STRONG new car market has helped CD Bramall report record profits for the first six months of the year.

The Harrogate group, which changed its name from Sanderson Bramall at the start of the year, yesterday revealed pre-tax profits of £11m, an increase of 9.9 per cent, on the half year to the end of June.

Turnover for the group was up by 12.5 per cent at £495.2m, with chairman Tony Bramall predicting a continued strong performance in the third quarter of the year.

The half-year saw Bramall add eight new dealerships, including two Ford and three Land Rover, to its existing portfolio, as well as the Iveco truck franchise for Greater Manchester and much of the North-West.

Mr Bramall, who is stepping down from executive duties, although remaining as chairman, said: "With the economy still being driven by consumer demand and low interest rates, we expect to see a strong third quarter of the year.

"Unlike last year when we saw prices of used vehicles falling dramatically, this year we should only see the usual seasonal decline which we have managed very well in the past."