UPMARKET estate agent Savills has seen its pre-tax profits jump 15 per cent to £24.7 million in the six months to June 30.

Revenues were eight per cent up at £430.8 million on the back of a strong UK market and "significant recovery" in continental Europe.

However, the firm added that top-of-the-range London house prices have been "moderating" over the last 18 months.

UK estate agency fees grew by 14 per cent to £59.6 million.

In Scotland Savills has offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth and Brechin.