However in a generally positive trading update it said trading in the year to date has continued to be in line with company expectations, with demand in its core market remaining strong.

While the "recent economic pressures generally in the UK" continue, "the outlook for the business remains promising and we are confident that the group will continue to perform in line with our expectations," the group said in Wednesday's statement.

The firm now has an order book and bidding pipeline, which currently stands at £2.1bn and £2.2bn respectively, compared with £2.3bn and £2.1bn respectively at the half year.