Arcon International Resources, which owns the lead-zinc ore body at Galmoy, Co Kilkenny, has announced further assay results which exhibit high-grade zinc. It has completed 10 new holes since November, with grades ranging from 4.56 per cent zinc to 31.96 per cent. The average grade exceeded 25 per cent, Arcon said. "This new zone is still open and drilling is ongoing with continued successful results."

The company has repeated what it said in November - that the mine's life has been extended from the original 10 years to 15 years. It will continue the exploration programme, hoping to increase its life further.