AN international engineering and design firm running North-East offices says energy work and Middle-East successes have helped results.

WS Atkins, which has bases in Stockton and Newcastle, revealed underlying operating profits stood at £53m for the six months to September 30, a rise from £50.7m in the same period last year.

The company, known for its work on UK railways and roads, added underlying pre-tax profits were also higher at £46.9m.

Bosses said revenue was up two per cent, helped by strong results in the Middle-East and energy projects, though they reported a mixed performance in UK and North American work.

Uwe Krueger, chief executive, said: “These are good half-year results, particularly our Middle-East performance and our energy business, which has completed two acquisitions in North America.

“Our financial position remains strong, with our continued focus on cash generation across the business generating net funds at the end of September of around £155m.”

The company previously worked with London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic organisers to transform the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park into a visitor attraction and community park.