MAGAZINE publisher Metal Bulletin shares jumped 25p to a record 485p

yesterday after a 39% surge in half time profits to #1.21m on turnover

just 14% greater at #7.96m, writes ANDREW WILSON.

That relects the benefit of new products and renewed interest in the

publications associated with the metals industry with rising demand from

the CIS whch now accounts for almost 10% of the sales of the flagship

Metal Bulletin.

Chairman Trevor Tarring said yesterday that he is looking for

acquisitions with some #7m cash under his belt.

The interim dividend rose 38% to 4p a share and the market is looking

for a full year total of 12p. Profits of less than #3m would come as

something of a surprise after the #2.53m made last year.