HEALTHCARE group Seton has reported a steady start to the new financial year.

The firm, which owns the Cupal pharmaceutical factory in Blackburn, said progress so far was "as expected".

Chairman Norman Stoller told the company's annual meeting that the firm was continuing to consolidate its position as a leading supplier of hospital dressings, over-the-counter brands and wound care products.

In May, Oldham-based Seton announced a jump in pre-tax profits of more than 20 per cent and that its turnover had topped £100 million for the first time. The company's preliminary results showed that profits before tax increased from £16.44 million in 1996 to £19.81 million.

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