Jarvis looks more ripe for takeover than ever following its return to the black this week, according to City sources. The prediction came after the rail specialist bounced back from a ￡21.7m loss last year. In the year ended 31 March 2008, pre-tax profit was ￡11.1m, more than double the consensus forecast of ￡5.5m. Turnover increased 12 from ￡288.5m to ￡321.9m, thanks to a strong second half. One City analyst said: "The results are better than expected. The company is a lot more attractive today than it was yesterday." Another said: "The fact it has also extended its debt repayment period and reduced interest charges means it is now in a secure position." The share price was 10 up at 27p in early morning trading. Trade buyers linked with Jarvis include Balfour Beatty and French group Bouygues.
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