A robust rise in earnings has been reported by Stagecoach for both London and regional services.

The group secured new contracts to run bus services in the capital, along with an extension to its deal to operate the west coast mainline train service.

Revenues from regional services rose by four per cent, while those from London received a 14.4 per cent boost. There was a 4.9 per cent increase in revenues from the group's rail operations, which include South West Trains and East Midlands Trains.

Stagecoach reported a 0.9 per cent growth in like-for-like passenger volumes on bus services outside London in the 12 weeks to July 20th.

A statement released by the company noted "challenges" to growing profit in the current financial year but was generally upbeat about prospects.

"Overall current trading is satisfactory and we remain on course to meet our expectations for the year," it said.