Textiles firm Chapelthorpe, which bought Brighouse-based Readicut, says it is in "good shape" after a year battling against the strong pound, changing fashions for home decorations and the costs of an abortive takeover bid.

Chapelthorpe, which makes wall coverings, umbrella frames and fibres, said being an exporter and a manufacturer in the past year had not been easy, given the strength of sterling.

Its floor-coverings division has also been battling against a decline in the UK market which has been ongoing for some years.

Chapelthorpe was also hit by a £1.7 million charge of an abortive bid for rival Allied Textile. The group is based in Birstall and owns firms in Bradford.

Chapelthorpe, which has its headquarters in Wakefield, posted pre-tax profits only slightly down on the previous year, at £9.7 million for the year to March 31, against £12 million. Turnover was £125.5 million, against £139.5 million. It said given the background, it regarded the results as satisfactory and said "the business is in good shape".

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