Dr Tony Mullins, managing director of Barlo Group, has acquired 215,000 shares in the company at a price of 84 cents per share. This brings his shareholding and that of Syden Investments (an investment holding company associated with Dr Mullins and his immediate family) to 5,465,000 shares, representing 3.19 per cent of the company.

Mr Niall Carroll, chairman, has purchased 35,000 shares at 84 cents per share. This brings his holding up to 250,772 shares.