Burger King to car sales chain Gowrings saw sales drop in the first six months of this year as it turned its back on unprofitable business.

The firm saw turnover jump to £61.1 million for the half-year to June 30, compared to £56.4 million for the same period last year, although pre-tax profits were down to £425,000 (2000: £571,000).

Motor division turnover was up 7% to more than £46 million and operating profit rose 110% to £914,000.

Chief executive Derek Coulson said: "The vehicle market has recovered from uncertainty over car pricing and we have seen good results from all departments. Fleet sales have been down as we are not chasing low margin business."

The firm also reported increased profits from its used car operation and its chain of bodyshops.