PERTH-based bus and rail company Stagecoach has unveiled a rise in underlying annual pre-tax profits from £180.7 million to £185m.

The company achieved a rise in revenues to £3.2 billion in the year to April 30, from £2.93bn in the prior 12 months.

Chief executive Martin Griffiths said: "These are a solid set of results notwithstanding continued tight central and local government spending, and increased competition for public transport from the private car driven by lower fuel prices."

He added: "We have a strong set of bus and rail businesses in the UK, mainland Europe and North America. Our successful strategy is focused on providing a good value, high quality travel experience for our customers, and investing for growth over the medium to long-term."