The firm, which counts the country’s major supermarkets among its clients, said contractor investment in projects helped to secure orders in one of the most challenging years for the construction industry.

Turnover in the year to August 2011 increased by 6% to £708m, while operating profit was 32% higher at £44.3m.

Cash at the bank rose to £200m from £185m the year before.

Chairman John Kirkland, said: “Our forward order book is strong and our involvement in joint venture developments and the innovative investment of some of our cash has been successful in securing additional construction work in a very competitive market place.

Looking ahead, he added: “I expect trading conditions to continue to be a challenge in 2012.”

Established in 1923, there are now 29 firms in the Bowmer & Kirkland Group, most of which are construction related.

The group also has a Homeland Security Division – Soncell International, which operates in the UK, USA and Middle East.

The highest paid director received £4.8m, down from £5.4m the year before.