STV resumes dividend payouts

STV is returning to the dividend list, sending shares in the Scottish broadcaster up 6 per cent yesterday.

STV also said that net debt was down 22 per cent to £43.4m. Its chief executive Rob Woodward said the dividend's return was "a sign that the company is now in good health".

The payout was suspended six years ago after debts soared.

Half-year, pre-tax profits at the broadcaster, which brings Catchphrase and the Antiques Road Trip to our screens, ticked up 5 per cent to £6.7m. More advertising and higher digital earnings produced an 8 per cent rise in revenues to £51.2m.