Wilson Bowden has announced record pre tax profits for 2004 in its preliminary results, following the upward trend set by other major housebuilders. Pre tax profits leapt by 15.6% to £260.5 million for the year up to December 31 2004. The group’s turnover rose by 10% to £1,282.3 million. David Wilson Homes saw operating profits increase by 14.2% to £248.8 million. Group chairman David Wilson said: “We increased volumes and delivered record profits while carefully positioning the business for more challenging market conditions. We adopted a cautious approach to buying land in 2004. Nonetheless, we have the plots and planning permission in place to deliver significant volume growth in 2005.”