Social housing maintenance specialist Mears increased its full year dividend by 20% to 5.70p per share, after saying demand for its services continues to be very strong. The group's success could now mean more social housing job openings after the recent economic downturn.

The group's order book is at a record £2bn and has increased its target to £3.9 billion, its highest ever. Chairman Bob Holt said: "The sales pipeline remains buoyant and there are a number of significant opportunities well advanced in the bidding process. In addition, we have a number of opportunities with existing customers to unlock significant additional revenue."

In the year to 31 December, pre-tax profit rose to £18.38 million compared with £16.58 million the previous year.  Revenues in the Social Housing division grew to £355.3 million from £282.0 million. The Domiciliary Care division contributed £60.1 million, up from £54.6 million. Mechanical & Electrical reported a 29.7 per cent fall in revenue to £54.8 million.

This success will help many families and increase the chances of job vacancies. Mr Holt continued: "The group has a clear strategy of building and maintaining market leading positions in each of its core businesses where we can clearly be recognised as the provider of quality services."