Investors will be in a holiday mood next week as Thomas Cook, TUI Travel and easyJet are among blue-chip com- panies due to report their figures.

More good news is expected from easyJet on Tuesday as the low-cost airline continues to benefit from its success in attracting business travellers.

The Luton-based carrier posts its half-year results and has already said it expects its seasonal winter loss to be lower than its original guidance.

The airline now predicts losses between £55 million and £65 million in the six months to March 31, compared with guidance in January of £70 million to £90 million and losses of £61m a year ago.

Pub chain and brewer Marston's is expected to show signs of solid growth as it continues to invest in pubs that serve food.

Marston's, which owns the Pitcher & Piano chain, posts its interim results next Thursday and analysts at Numis forecast its half-year profits will rise 3 per cent to £28.5 million, compared to a year ago.

The group will manage this on the back of a pub opening programme of 25 to 30 outlets this year, with 11 of these coming in the first six months.