QUARRYING, forestry and farming group Hillhouse Estates, which is based in Troon, has reported a rise in turnover from £25.4 million to almost £27m.

The group said that its pre-tax profits were holding steady at £1.3m, although they have improved from £413,563 to more than £1m at an operating level.

Quarrying makes up the bulk of the group's income at £25.4m for the 12 months to March 31 this year. The directors said the cash balance of some £3.7m was "very healthy" in accounts filed at Companies House.