PERSIMMON plc -- parent company of Leigh-based Persimmon Homes North West -- has announced record results.

Sales increased by 16pc to £1,711 million from £1,477 million in 2001, and profit before tax rose 42 per cent to £267.6 million from £188.1 million.

David Broadbent, regional chairman, Persimmon Homes North West, said: "This has been our most profitable year to date, with more sales than ever before.

"The North-west company has expanded dramatically with a number of successful land acquisitions and a rapidly growing staff team, prompting our intended move to bigger, purpose-built offices in the summer."

About 100 staff are moving from their present Holden Road building to a new headquarters on the East Lancashire Road.