HIRE services and building contracting firm Allen saw its pre-tax profits plunge to £540,000 in the six months to the beginning of October, compared to just over £10 million in the same period last year.

Exceptional items and losses from discounted operations dragged down the figures, including £4.42 million on the disposal of Allen Homes to Morris Homes and other items.

Turnover at the Bolton-based firm rose slightly from £170.77 million to £171.5 million.