DORSET'S contractors for highways repair and construction, have again reported an annual surplus.

Dorset Works Organisation, run by Dorset County Council, reported an annual turnover of £21.1 million, putting just under £400,000 profit back into county council coffers for the second year running.

The contractor employs 200 staff to maintain and build roads, look after the grounds around council properties, maintain the vehicles and make road signs.

They co-ordinate and carry out all the winter maintenance and are currently putting this season's workplan in place.

Miles Butler, director for environmental services, said: "DWO continues to operate a very robust performance management regime which relies heavily on staff involvement.

"I am delighted that its financial performance remains sound even though building costs are increasing. DWO is innovative and ground breaking; it wins many awards and accreditations from external assessment bodies."

Cabinet member for transport Col Geoffrey Brierley said: "It is pleasing to learn of another successful year for Dorset Works Organisation and I congratulate the work force on their achievement.

"In particular, the Parish Maintenance Units have proved ever more successful in maintaining the smaller roads in the network and I know from personal experience how much their efforts are appreciated by the parishes they support."

Head of DWO Andrew Martin said: "I am delighted to be in a position to present such a healthy year end report. Our staff have worked exceptionally hard over the last 12 months, at times in extreme weather conditions.

"Our success is largely down to them and I thank them all for their commitment and professionalism."