DIRECTORS of Clitheroe-based conservatory roofing firm Ultraframe saw their pay packages fall last year after missing out on bonuses.

According to the group's recently published annual report and accounts, chief executive David Moore, 38, saw his total pay package, including benefits, fall by more than £50,000 to £184,156.

The previous year he had received £236,337, including a £72,500 bonus.

Ultraframe had a tough year in 2001, blaming wet weather for poor sales in the spring. The company issued two profit warnings which led to millions of pounds being wiped off the company's value.

During the financial year to September 28 turnover rose to £100.7million, up from £81.7million, but profits before tax fell from £27.5million to £24.6million.

Other company bosses to suffer 'pay cuts' included finance director and company secretary James Henry, who received a total package of £110,572, down from £133,809; and group technical director Chris Richardson, who received a £131,012 package, down from £137,962. Founder John Lancaster received a £30,000 salary unchanged from the previous year.

Managing director of Ultraframe (UK) Nick Gale, 41,who was appointed in January 2001, received £132,000 in salary for the part of the year he served and David Ewing, 54, who was appointed as chief executive of the group's North American operations in September 2001, received £11,275.

In his statement, non-executive chairman Rod Sellers said it had been a year of solid performance with sales growth in difficult trading conditions.

"The current year has started well for both our UK and North American operations reflecting the strong underlying demand for our products in all our markets.

"Sales in the first two months are over 10% ahead of last year in the UK reflecting the extending of the annual seasonal sales pattern, but, being cautious, we do not currently expect to see this growth rate continue for the full year.

"The move from a UK-based business, with a relatively small export business, to a major manufacturer and distributor of conservatory systems for the European and North American markets has been achieved through careful planning and research, well-timed investment in the core business, excellent overseas acquisitions and the establishment of a strong senior management team. I believe the group is well positioned for growth."

The total number employed by the group rose to 881 from 636 during the year. The group's annual general meeting will be held at its Clitheroe site on January 18.