Tullow Oil says it is headed for strong full-year results after turnover doubled in the first half.
Net profits increased to £7.6 million sterling from £4.7 million, as turnover grew to £55.02 million from £27.1 million.
The increase was fuelled by sales of gas produced from Tullow's assets in the southern North Sea.
The company says it expects increased production in the second half and intends to consider paying a dividend for the full year.
Chairman Mr Pat Plunkett said the first half of 2002 has been a period of continued progress for Tullow. The group's UK and Cote d'Ivoire developments continue to gather momentum, he said.
Over the coming six months the group will begin on exploration in Britain, Cote d'Ivoire, Bangladesh, India and Algeria.