Multi-sector recruiter OPD reported a “successful year” and said the market had continued to improve.

Turnover for 2005 rose to £56.8m from £43.7m in 2004. The UK accounted for £51.6m of turnover.

Pre-tax profit was up 62% at £4.6m. Net fees rose 25% to £31.8m.

The acquisition of Odgers Ray & Berndtson came too late in the year to have a material effect on the results. But the deal will almost double the net fee income for OPD, which changed its name from PSD in December.

Chief executive Francesca Robinson said the group has had “an encouraging start” to 2006.