Dealer group European Motor Holdings said trading for the first-half of its financial year was significantly ahead of its expectations and the comparable period last year.

The group made exceptional profits of approximately £0.9m in the period through disposal of properties and businesses.

It has also received £6m in respect of its retrospective VAT claims, plus £5.9m interest.

EMH has also secured a new franchise deal for its Audi business in Tetbury, Gloucestershire.