Wiltshire-based Avon Rubber said that trading had continued as expected since December, with continued good order intake across its portfolio of life critical personal protection systems for the world’s militaries and first responders.

“We have seen positive order momentum in the military, first responder and Team Wendy businesses, and have made progress with the updated body armour designs for the US Defense Logistics Agency Enhanced Small Arms Protective Inserts and US Army Vital Torso Protection contracts,”

- the company said.

The board therefore remained confident of achieving its expectations for the current financial year.