PROFITS at Marks & Spencer supplier Lambert Howarth have fallen.

In the six months to June 30, profits before tax at the Burnley-based firm were £3.76million compared with £4.59million last year.

The firm said the results were produced against a background of difficult trading conditions in an increasingly competitive market place.

The company employs around 40 at its warehousing operation in Burnley.

Last November the firm took over Fast Forward, which supplied accessories including scarves.

"The integration of the Fast Forward business, including the joint venture company Fisher Forward, which we later acquired, has progressed well," said the firm.

"We are confident that the skills and experience within the combined teams, together with further recruitment of key personnel to expand the business profile, will put the group in a stronger position."