My son holds a few shares in Lavenden and asked me tonight why out of the blue it had gained 7.5 today - I've looked at the number of shares traded - nothing to write home about - no news - or i don't think there is.

Does anybody have any thoughts?

still flying up 3.21% this morning - Lavendon Group PLC said its results for the six months to end-June will exceed current market expectations as year-on-year revenues grew 48 pct reflecting both organic growth, significantly improved operating margins and contributions from EPS-enhancing acquisitions.

The company, which rents powered access equipment, brought forward its trading update to say it continues to trade strongly and explore acquisition opportunities, and is confident it will be able to report further progress in coming months.

The company said its German operations have returned to profit with a 134 pct increase in revenues and that further progress is expected in the seasonally stronger second half.

UK revenues rose 26 pct, with both the Rise Hire and Wizard Workspace acquisitions expected to contribute to business performance for the remainder of the year. The decline in French revenues slowed to 7 pct and Middle East operations showed an 83 pct rise in revenues.

Debt levels remain comfortable and are well supported by strong operational cash flows, the company said.