Revenue from continuing operations for the first quarter of the current financial year was £154.0m, a growth of 8% over the £142.3m for the corresponding period last year. We experienced growth for the period at constant exchange rates of 7% with growth in all regions.

In our metrology business revenue amounted to £147.4m compared to £137.1m last year, with growth at constant exchange rates of 7%. Revenue in our healthcare business was £6.6m compared with £5.2m last year, a growth of 25% at constant exchange rates.

The Adjusted* profit before tax from continuing operations for the first quarter amounted to £32.6m compared with £35.8m last year and the statutory profit before tax amounted to £33.5m (2018: £36.9m).

Over recent years, we have invested in people and infrastructure to support growth opportunities and are now well placed to benefit from these investments. We anticipate the rate of investment in additional resources will reduce in the remainder of the current financial year as we continue to monitor the Group's cost base.

Financial position 

The Group balance sheet remains strong with net cash balances of £115.3m as at 30th September 2018 compared to £103.8m at 30th June 2018.

Outlook

Despite the potential impacts of Brexit and economic uncertainties in Asia the Board remains confident in the future prospects of the Group and of growth in both revenue and profit in this financial year.

The results for the half year ending 31st December 2018 will be released on 31st January 2019.