CONTINENTAL cafe culture in Bolton has helped a major coffee shop chain to record profits.

In its preliminary results for the year to May 31, Caffe Nero - which has a branch on Deansgate - posted a turnover of £70.1million. That figure is up by 39 per cent from £50.5 million in 2004.

Gerry Ford, Chairman of Caff Nero Group, said: "I am delighted to report another set of strong results, reinforcing Caffe Nero's emergence as a highly promising national brand.

"The Group remains well placed to have another successful year."

The company added that it had opened 52 new stores during the year. There are currently 230 stores operating in 101 UK towns and cities, with 41 new stores planned this year