Debt management group Debt Free Direct has announced that profits for the nine months to January 31 are ahead of expectations.

The company, which employs around 200 on Ackhurst Business Park, Foxhole Road, Chorley, said the profits reflect strong growth in new cases and turnover.

It said profit for the year to April 30 will be above forecasts.

Andrew Redmond, chief executive officer, said: "We are pleased to be able to confirm that we continue to grow ahead of our expectations."