JD Wetherspoon on track to open 50 more pubs

JD Wetherspoon looks set to continue its programme of expansion after reporting first half-profits of £36.2m.

The pubs operator announced it would restore the dividend payments that it suspended one year ago after the recession sparked a collapse in trade.

The group said that it was on track to open 50 more pubs in the coming financial year, the Times reported.

Chairman Tim Martin said: "As a result of our sales, profits and free cashflow, together with our continued efforts to improve every area of the business, I remain confident of our future prospects,"