Associated British Ports reported strong sales growth yesterday.

The group, which handles about a quarter of the UK's seaborne trade, and is a major rival of Teesport operator PD, said all areas of its business performed well this year.

Turnover from the group's UK ports and transport operations is expected to have increased by at least four per cent in the six months to June 30, with underlying operating profits expected to improve by two per cent or more.