The shock departure of PizzaExpress chief executive Mr Ian Eldridge overshadowed robust first half figures from the restaurant group.
No reason was given for his resignation after almost 19 years with the company and his responsibilities are being assumed by chairman Mr David Page.
Pretax profit for the six months ended December 31st was £21.8 million before exceptional items, a rise of 12 per cent and was achieved on turnover up 16 per cent at £103.8 million.
Like-for-like sales were ahead 3 per cent, year-on-year.
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PizzaExpress is paying a 2.5 pence a share interim dividend, up 0.5 pence.
PA
