THREE directors at home shopping and educational supplies group Findel plc, a major East Lancashire employer, shared bonuses of £427,000 after achieving record financial results.

The Burley-in-Wharfedale company owns the Express Gifts operations locally.

The company's newly published annual report shows chairman Keith Chapman, 60, received a £183,000 bonus and £315,000 salary for a total package, including benefits, of £527,000 in the financial year to March 31, 2003, up from £507,000 the previous year.

Chief executive Tony Johnson, 59, received a £150,000 bonus and £260,000 salary for a total package of £442,000 up from £420,000.

Company secretary Ivan Bolton, 59, received a £94,000 bonus and £170,000 salary for a £288,000 package, up from £265,000.

During the year Dr Bolton also exercised share options resulting in a gain of £19,835.

Directors can receive a performance-related bonus of up to 60 per cent of their salary, dependent largely on achievement of profit targets.

During the year turnover rose to £368.2million from £340.5million and pre-tax profits rose to £25.9million from £14.8million.

In his chairman's statement Mr Chapman said it had been an excellent year for the group.

"I am confident that the work we have undertaken in all divisions over recent years will continue to pay dividends.

"The board is confident that the group will make further progress in the coming year."

The company's annual general meeting will be held at the Marriott Hollins Hall Hotel in Shipley on July 7.