888.com at a record as it recovers from US ban

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This was the first full year since online gambling was effectively made illegal in the United States in October 2006 and 888 saw 55% of its revenues turned off almost overnight.

But today's figures showed it recovered quickly and strongly last year. It has also expanded its European operations with the launch of sports betting in conjunction with Rank's Blue Square division, a new bingo service 888ladies and the introduction of online backgammon.

Chief executive Gigi Levy said: "I am very pleased that we have now successfully completed the restructuring and repositioning of the business and have now delivered record results for the year both in terms of revenue and profit. Given the positive start to 2008...we are confident in delivering future growth during 2008."

Total operating income rose by 38% to £217 million in the year to end December with pre-tax profits jumping from £22.2 million to £45.8 million. That was towards the lower end of analysts' forecasts, from £45.3 million to £47.4 million. The shares rose 1p to 147¾p.

888.com is paying a final dividend of five cents a share, higher than it had indicated earlier.