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The chief executive of a Cheshire-headquartered veterinary pharmaceuticals business has hailed its performance during its pandemic-affected financial year as the group's revenue surged.

Dechra Pharmaceuticals is set to report a revenue rise of c.21% at constant exchange rate (CER) and c.18% at actual exchange rate (AER) for the 12 months to June 30, 2021, when its full results are published in September.

The Northwich-headquartered company's revenue in Europe increased by c.20% at CER and AER while its North American sales rose by c.22% and c.14% respectively.

In a statement to the London Stock Exchange, the group added that its financial results were boosted by Mirataz launching in Europe and performing ahead of expectations as well as 11 months of "strong contribution" from Osurina.

Chief executive Ian Page said: "We are pleased to have continued to outperform a robust market throughout the pandemic affected financial year.

"We have benefited from above average market growth in the majority of our key CAP markets.

"The reasons for this growth are not yet fully clear with evidence of increased companion animal numbers remaining unconfirmed at this point.

"What is clear is that people have been spending more time with their pets and have therefore been more cognitive of their welfare.

"Thanks to the exceptional effort of our talented people our business has operated well throughout the pandemic; all manufacturing sites and laboratories have remained operational and communication with customers has been excellent through increased use of digital media."