In a trading update for the first nine months of 2004, brewer Scottish & Newcastle (S&N) has reported a robust performance over the summer months despite the poor weather.

The group is confident it will meet market expectations for 2004 as volumes in its top four UK brands grew by 5 per cent during the period.

In a Reuters interview, S&N finance director, Ian McHoul, said: “We have seen a difficult trading environment, but we are performing well within the market. July was difficult, August improved and September was back to more normal levels.” Details: www.scottish-newcastle.com