Results follow 'difficult' year at Eseex-based housebuilder.

Pre-tax profit has plummeted 36% at Essex-based housebuilder Weston Homes following a “difficult” year in the housing market.

The company reported a pre-tax profit of £8.3m for the year ending 31 July 2006,cpmared to £13m the previous year. Turnover also dropped, down 15% to £82.8m from £97.4m.

Chairman and managing director Bob Weston said: “The housing market in the UK has been difficult throughout the year and the decline I transactions is reflected in our results.” However he was confident the year ahead would be successful.

The Weston Group comprises three main areas, property development, business centres, which provides serviced offices and aviation which run’s the London Heliport