Much of the credit it said in a trading statement was due to the strong performance of its Middle East region.

"Hyder generates over 60% of its revenues from overseas markets, and their continued strength gives us confidence in our outlook for the current financial year which remains unchanged," the statement said.

Hyder also announced that it has appointed Russell Down as its new finance director, effective 11 December 2008, succeeding Simon Hamilton-Eddy who will be retiring.