LAM.L Regulatory News (LAM)

28 March 2011

LAMPRELL PLC

("Lamprell" or the "Company")

2010 PRELIMINARY RESULTS

Lamprell (ticker: LAM), a leading provider of specialist engineering services to the international oil & gas and renewable industry based in the UAE, is pleased to announce its Preliminary Results for the year ended 31 December 2010.

2010 FINANCIAL RESULTS

·; Revenue: US$ 503.8 million, up 18.4% (2009: US$ 425.5 million)

·; Operating profit: US$ 69.5 million, up 149.1%* (2009: US$ 27.9 million)

·; Net profit: US$ 66.6 million, up 134.5%* (2009: US$ 28.4 million)

·; Proposed final dividend: 9.50 cents (5.88 pence) per ordinary share (2009: 3.80 cents)

·; EPS (fully diluted): 33.25 cents, up 134.2%* (2009: 14.20 cents)

·; Cash and bank balances as at 31 December 2010 of US$ 210.2 million (31 December 2009: US$ 67.8 million) with zero debt

·; Order book as at 28 February 2011 of US$ 962 million (31 October 2010: US$ 725 million)

* For the current year stated before reflecting exceptional charges arising from the closure of Lamprell Asia Limited amounting to US$ 1.4 million (2009: nil).

2010 Underlying Trading Results

The underlying trading results for the year ended 31 December 2010, are as follows:

·; Operating profit: US$ 49.1 million, up 76.0%** (2009: US$ 27.9 million)

·; Net profit: US$ 46.2 million, up 62.7%** (2009: US$ 28.4 million)

·; EPS (fully diluted): 23.06 cents, up 62.4%** (2009: 14.20 cents)

** The underlying trading results reflect the results for the period before a one-off gain related to the cancellation of the contract with Riginvest G.P., amounting to US$ 23.9 million, net of additional costs arising as a result of the one-off gain, amounting to US$ 3.5 million.

2010 OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

·; The "Offshore Mischief" S116E jackup drilling rig was delivered to Scorpion Offshore Limited on time and on budget in April 2010.

·; 43 jackup rig upgrade and refurbishment projects were undertaken in 2010, with highlights including major work to the jackup rig Noble "David Tinsley" and Rowan rig "Middletown".

·; Construction of the two offshore well head platforms with associated jackets and piles for an offshore oil and gas operator in India took place at Lamprell's Jebel Ali facility. Delivery of the completed structures occurred in January 2011.

·; The construction of the Livorno process modules for Saipem S.p.A. was completed in 2010, with delivery taking place in September 2010, both on time and on budget.

CURRENT MAJOR PROJECTS

·; The engineering and procurement phase of the contract awards from Fred Olsen Windcarrier AS ("Windcarrier") for the design, construction and delivery of two Gusto MSC NG-9000 design self elevating and self propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessels, valued at US$ 320.4 million, has proceeded according to schedule. Construction activities commenced at Lamprell's Jebel Ali facility in Q3 2010 for unit 1, and Q4 2010 for unit 2. The vessels will be delivered in Q2 and Q3 of 2012.

·; Construction activities in connection with the "Seajacks Zaratan", a GustoMSC NG-5500C design self-elevating and self-propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessel, valued at US$129 million, commenced at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility in Q4 2010. Construction will continue throughout 2011 prior to load out and delivery in 2012.

·; The engineering and procurement phase of the contract valued at US$317 million and signed in July 2010 with National Drilling Company to construct two LeTourneau S116E jackup drilling rigs is now well advanced. Construction at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility is underway, with delivery on schedule and on budget for 2012.

·; Construction of the hull modules has commenced in connection with the contract signed with Eurasia Drilling Company Limited in November 2010 for the construction and delivery of a LeTourneau Super 116E jack up rig, valued at US$210 million, with delivery scheduled for 2013.

·; The engineering and procurement phase of the contract with Greatship Global Energy Services Pte. Ltd. for the construction and delivery of a completely outfitted and equipped, LeTourneau designed, self-elevating Mobile Offshore Drilling Platform of a Super 116E (Enhanced) Class design is on schedule and construction will commence at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility in Q2 2011.

Commenting on the full year results Nigel McCue, Chief Executive Officer, Lamprell said:

"2010 proved to be a very positive year for the Company as we saw a significant improvement in many of our operating markets after the turbulent period experienced during the economic crisis. Strengthening oil prices have contributed to unprecedented levels of enquiries and bid activity. A positive development was the unforeseen turnaround in the new build jackup market in the second half of the year. This was in part triggered by a post-Macondo effect but moreover by a continuing drive for more modern, cost-effective and efficient drilling units designed to meet the ever increasing technical demands of the drilling industry.

We also continue to focus on delivering best in class execution of projects, on time and on budget. This has long been our operating benchmark, and yet again in 2010 we saw the benefits of this delivery-led strategy as repeat business contributed significantly to revenues. We believe that this close attention to providing our customers with exactly what they require is fundamental in ensuring the long term growth of our business.

Building upon the success in 2010, 2011 has started encouragingly. We maintain our focus on existing core business, together with complementary markets. The Company is confident in its prospects for future growth and success, both for the current year and in the longer term, based upon both its record order book position, and the strengthening which it sees in its key markets."

Enquiries:

Chief Executive Officer's Statement

2010 proved to be a very positive year for the Company as we saw a significant improvement in many of our operating markets after the turbulent period experienced during the economic crisis. Strengthening oil prices have contributed to unprecedented levels of enquiries and bid activity. A positive development was the unforeseen turnaround in the new build jackup market in the second half of the year. This was in part triggered by a post Macondo effect but moreover by a continuing drive for more modern, cost effective and efficient drilling units designed to meet the ever increasing technical demands of the drilling industry.

Given the continuing emergence from the global financial crisis the results for the year were very pleasing with revenues totalling US$ 504 million, resulting in a net profit for the period of US$ 66.6 million (US$ 65.2 million after exceptional charges), reinforcing the strong commercial foundations of the business and the benefits of our tight management of operational and capital expenditure over the last two years.

The prevailing economic climate, whilst still uncertain in a number of ways, has provided a more stable backdrop in recent months, and the strengthening oil price has encouraged more operator activity, improving sentiment throughout the industry's supply chain.

Our longstanding strategy of maintaining a strong balance sheet has continued to underpin our disciplined fiscal approach even as markets became more active, and this rigorous control remains central to our activities.

We also continue to focus on delivering best in class execution of projects, on time and on budget. This has long been our operating benchmark, and yet again in 2010 we saw the benefits of this delivery-led strategy as repeat business contributed significantly to revenues. We believe that this close attention to providing our customers with exactly what they require is fundamental in ensuring the long term growth of our business.

Throughout 2010 the Company continued to place great emphasis on the development and application of practices designed to provide a workplace that is both safe and which minimises environmental impact. In 2011 the Company remains focused on these key aspects of the operation of its business.

Significant project milestones during the year included the Company delivering its first new build tender assist drilling barge, BassDrill Alpha, in January 2010 as well as resolving the outstanding payment issue relating to the barge. The Company received a cash payment of US$55 million and 28,000,000 shares in BassDrill, representing 20% of BassDrill's equity. The Company has recently exercised its put option in respect of these shares, receiving US$2.6 million as consideration for its shareholding.

In April 2010 we were very pleased to deliver our second new build LeTourneau Super 116E jackup drilling rig, the Offshore Mischief, to Scorpion Rigs LTD.

Other notable projects executed during the year included the fabrication of the Livorno FPSO process modules for Saipem S.p.A. with the final module being delivered in September 2010 together with the construction of two offshore well-head platforms for a leading oil and gas operator in India, which were completed and delivered in Q1 2011.

2010 was our most successful year in terms of new orders amounting to US$ 1.2 billion, with our order book standing at US$ 850 million at the end of the period.

Particularly pleasing were a number of new build construction contracts for both self-propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessels and jackup drilling rigs.

In February, the Company announced that it had received two significant new contract awards from Fred Olsen Windcarrier AS ("Windcarrier"), which in aggregate totaled US$ 320.4 million.

The Engineering, Procurement & Construction ("EPC") contract awards from Windcarrier were for the design, construction and delivery of two Gusto MSC NG-9000 design self-elevating and self-propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessels. Both vessels will be constructed at Lamprell's Jebel Ali facility and are scheduled to be delivered in Q2 and Q3 of 2012.

In addition to these contracts for two units, Lamprell and Windcarrier executed an option agreement for two further vessels, the first of which has now lapsed, whilst the second may be exercised up until August 2011.

We believe that our early entry into this new and promising construction market, with the Company now regarded as one of the leading providers of liftboats for offshore wind turbine installation, positions the Company well as the offshore wind sector matures in the medium and longer term.

This early positioning and the revenue benefits of repeat business were reinforced by the receipt in July of a US$ 129.0 million new contract award from Seajacks 3 LTD for the design, construction and delivery of a Gusto MSC NG-5500 design self-elevating and self-propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessel. The vessel, named "Seajacks Zaratan", will be constructed at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility and is due to be delivered in 2012.

It was also pleasing to see more positive signs of a strengthening of the new build jackup rig market with the Company receiving a US$ 317 million contract award from the National Drilling Company ("NDC"), Abu Dhabi in July. This contract with NDC is for the construction and delivery of two jackup rigs valued at US$158.5 million each. The rigs will be completely outfitted and equipped, LeTourneau designed, self-elevating Mobile Offshore Drilling Platforms of a Super 116E (Enhanced) Class design. Work on the first rig commenced in August with delivery scheduled for the middle of Q2 2012.

As part of the contract, NDC has options for Lamprell to build two further jackup rigs, valued at US$ 158.5 million per rig, exercisable during the 12 month period commencing on 1 August 2010.

The NDC contract award facilitated the resolution of the Riginvest contract issue. Lamprell and Riginvest agreed that the contract for the construction of a LeTourneau Super 116E jackup drilling rig terminated upon signature of the contract between NDC and Lamprell. The rig that was being built for Riginvest would now be built for NDC. Riginvest received a portion of the contract advance it initially paid to Lamprell as part of the termination agreement. From an accounting perspective, pursuant to International Financial Reporting Standards, the cancellation of the Riginvest contract created a material one-off accounting gain in the Company's financial statements for 2010, totaling US$ 20.4 million, reflecting the gain net of additional provisions arising as a result of the contract cancellation.

A further positive development for our EPC business saw the award in November of a US$ 210 million contract from Eurasia Drilling Company Limited for the construction and delivery of a completely outfitted and equipped, LeTourneau designed, self-elevating Mobile Offshore Drilling Platform of a Super 116E (Enhanced) Class design. Lamprell will fabricate the jackup rig in modular form in its new yard in Hamriyah and then complete the construction and commissioning in a shipyard, which is yet to be determined, in the Caspian Sea. The project is planned to be completed 24 months from the commencement of construction.

February 2011 saw the award of a further contract for the construction of a LeTourneau Super 116E (Enhanced) Class design rig for a new client, Greatship Global Energy Services Pte.Ltd, based in Singapore. The unit is scheduled for delivery in Q4 2012.

Having phased the expenditure on the expansion of our facility in the Hamriyah Free Zone to reflect the prevailing economic conditions, we are now seeing the benefits of the increased capacity. The significantly enlarged quayside enables us to work on as many as 11 rigs at one time, thereby increasing the potential of both our rig refurbishment and new build construction businesses. Due to the increasing level of fabrication activity, the Company is in advanced negotiations to acquire an additional 40,000 m² of land immediately adjacent to our existing yard bringing the total area within the Hamriyah Free Zone to 335,000 m².

In rig refurbishment we have worked on a total of 43 jackup rigs in 2010 and these projects have included work scopes covering the full range of our upgrade and refurbishment services. Projects have been shared between our UAE facilities, with Sharjah working on 21 rigs and the Hamriyah facility working on 22 jackups. As previously guided, the jackup rig upgrade and refurbishment activity in 2010 was at a lower level of average expenditure than in the prior year. It remains challenging to anticipate activity in this segment given the relatively short cycle between bidding and the award of work. There are, however, encouraging signs of renewed activity in this market, with the Company well placed to receive further awards in the near future.

Throughout 2010 we continued to construct FPSO process modules for Saipem S.p.A.and Saipem Energy Services S.p.A. at our Jebel Ali facility and believe that this segment of our business will benefit from the strengthening oil price in the medium term.

Towards the end of 2010 the Company established a core Strategic Development Group comprising industry specialists who are currently working on a number of bespoke engineering solutions for the upstream petroleum sector.

We continue to review all our operations to ensure they are creating value for our shareholders. After a review by management, the Board has now agreed to terminate the Group's operation in Thailand with effect from 31 December 2010 due to poor current and forecast market conditions. The total cost of closing the facility was not material.

The Board

In March 2010 Chris Hand was appointed as Chief Operating Officer, and joined the Board in January 2011. Chris brings to the Board 15 years of experience with Lamprell and I am certain he will make a very valuable contribution in the coming years. In December, Scott Doak, our Chief Financial Officer, informed the Board that he wishes to leave the Company by the end of 2011 to pursue other interests. Scott will, by then, have spent almost five years with the Company and played a significant part in taking the Company on to The London Stock Exchange AIM market, on to the Main List and through one of the most difficult periods the industry has ever faced. We would like to thank Scott for his hard work and professionalism undertaken during this very demanding period in the Company's history. The Company is currently seeking a successor to Scott; Scott will facilitate the handover to the new person when he or she has been appointed.

Market Overview

The Company has a record bid pipeline at this time. In particular we have seen an increase in activity levels in the new build jackup market, reflecting the current buoyancy of that market segment. While the full impact of the deepwater Macondo oil spill in the US Gulf of Mexico on the wider rig market has yet to fully unwind many sector analysts are predicting a continuation in the new build programmes as the market for higher specification rigs remains strong. As the search for oil and gas becomes increasingly more technically demanding rigs that can drill deeper, horizontal wells more cost effectively in deeper, harsh environment, waters will demand higher day-rates and hence will help drive the new build rig construction market.

As previously reported, we experienced a slowdown in the rig refurbishment market in the second half of 2010, however there are now encouraging signs of renewed activity in this market. We continue to see significant potential for Lamprell in the liftboat market in the medium and longer term and aim to build on our early leadership position in this part of our business.

The Company is actively pursuing a number of exciting prospects for its oilfield engineering business including new build land rigs, refurbishment projects and equipment overhaul and is confident that new business for this segment can be secured in the coming months.

Dividend

The Board of Directors is recommending a final dividend payment of 9.50 cents per ordinary share. This will be payable, when approved, on 17 June 2011 to eligible shareholders on the register at 13 May 2011.

Outlook

Building upon the success in 2010, 2011 has started encouragingly. We maintain our focus on existing core business, together with complementary markets. The Company is confident in its prospects for future growth and success, both for the current year and in the longer term, based upon both its record order book position, and the strengthening which it sees in its key markets.

I would again like to take this opportunity to express my personal thanks, together with those of the Board of Directors, to all of our management, staff and employees for their hard work and dedication which they have given throughout the year. With over 5,000 employees it is indeed a credit and achievement that everyone has played their part in the success of the Company. On a final note I would like to thank our founder and President, Steven Lamprell, for his continuing encouragement and support.

Nigel McCue

Chief Executive Officer

Operating Review

Lamprell continues to focus on maintaining high standards of project execution, with a particular emphasis on safety, high quality standards and delivering projects both on time and on budget.

This focus on project execution, as well as client satisfaction, ensures that Lamprell maintains and strengthens relationships with existing customers, and enables Lamprell to secure new customers and expand its customer base.

The strength of Lamprell's operations is reflected in the order book, which was at a record high of US$ 850 million at the year end and included US$ 521 million from new customers and US$ 329 million from repeat customers.

During the year Lamprell has continued to focus on the execution of Engineering, Procurement and Construction ("EPC") new build projects, including the construction of jackup drilling rigs and liftboats, whilst continuing our traditional rig refurbishment and fabrication projects for the offshore oil and gas sector.

The principal markets in which Lamprell operates, and the principal services provided are:

- EPC new build construction of jackup drilling rigs, liftboats and tender assist drilling units;

- upgrade and refurbishment of offshore jackup rigs;

- new build construction for the offshore oil and gas sector; and,

- oilfield engineering services, including the upgrade and refurbishment of land rigs.

The operational aspects of these business activities are reviewed as follows:

Engineering Procurement and Construction ("EPC")

Lamprell secured four major EPC projects during 2010 and these projects are under construction at Lamprell's Jebel Ali and Hamriyah facilities.

Fred Olsen liftboats

The first EPC award in 2010, from Fred Olsen Windcarrier, for two GustoMSC NG-9000 design self-elevating and self-propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessels, was confirmed in February 2010, for execution at the Jebel Ali facility. Subsequently the engineering and procurement phase of the project has proceeded according to schedule and construction activities relating to this US$ 320.4 million contract commenced in Q3 2010 for unit 1 and Q4 2010 for unit 2. Construction will continue throughout 2011 prior to load out and delivery in 2012.

Seajacks liftboat

Following the successful delivery on time and on budget in 2009 of the wind turbine installation vessels, 'Seajacks' Kraken and 'Seajacks Leviathan', Lamprell secured a US$ 129.0 million contract award in June 2010 from Seajacks 3 LTD for the delivery of 'Seajacks Zaratan', a GustoMSC NG-5500C design self-elevating and self-propelled offshore wind turbine installation vessel. The engineering and procurement activities associated with this project have proceeded according to schedule and construction activities commenced at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility in Q4 2010. Construction will continue throughout 2011 prior to load out and delivery in 2012.

Scorpion S116 E jackup drilling rig

Following the delivery of the Offshore Freedom in 2009 Lamprell was very pleased to deliver the Scorpion Offshore Mischief on time and on budget in April 2010 at the Hamriyah facility.

NDC S116E jackup drilling rigs

In July Lamprell signed a contract with the National Drilling Company, Abu Dhabi ("NDC") to construct two LeTourneau S116E jackup drilling rigs. The engineering and procurement phases of this contract are now well advanced and construction at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility is underway. Both rigs are on schedule for delivery in 2012.

EDC S116E jackup drilling rig

In November Lamprell signed a US$ 210 million new contract award with Eurasia Drilling Company for the construction and delivery of a LeTourneau S116E. The unit will be constructed in modular form at Lamprell's Hamriyah facility and then transported, via the Volga Don canal, to the Caspian Sea for final assembly and delivery. The construction of the hull modules commenced in Q1 2011 and the transportation to the Caspian Sea is scheduled in Q1 2012 with delivery in 2013.

Upgrade and refurbishment of offshore jackup rigs

In rig upgrade and refurbishment Lamprell worked on a total of 43 jackup rigs throughout the year, and these projects have included work scopes covering the full range of our upgrade and refurbishment services.

Projects have been shared between our UAE facilities, with Hamriyah facility working on 22 jackups and the Sharjah working on 21 rigs.

Refurbishment and upgrade projects such as these vary greatly in scope from project to project and depend on the existing condition of each rig and the owner's upgrade requirements. A minor project can have a work schedule lasting a few days, whereas a major upgrade project with a significant engineering requirement can last for 12 months or more. Throughout 2010 average work volumes on individual rigs was reduced, whilst the higher rig count compensated for this trend. Typical upgrade and refurbishment projects include some of the following work scopes:

- leg extensions and/or strengthening;

- conversion of slot rigs to cantilever mode;

- living quarters extension, upgrade and refurbishment;

- engine replacement and repower works;

- mud process system upgrade and/or refurbishment;

- helideck replacement, upgrade and/or refurbishment; and,

- condition-driven refurbishment, including structural steel and piping replacement and painting.

New build construction for the offshore oil and gas sector

Our Jebel Ali facility continues to work on projects that require the utilisation of the state-of-the-art facility, along with the high levels of project management control that ensure safety and quality standards are maintained whilst keeping a strong focus on delivery.

This focus on delivery ensured that work on the Livorno process modules for Saipem S.p.A. was completed on time and on budget with final delivery taking place in September 2010. The Aquila process modules for Saipem Energy Services S.p.A. were similarly delivered on time and on budget with the final module delivered in Q1 2011.

Throughout 2010 two offshore well head platforms with associated jackets and piles were under construction for a leading oil and gas operator. These platforms will be delivered in Q1 2011.

In Q4 2010 Lamprell was awarded a US$ 39 million contract from a leading integrated energy provider for the construction of an offshore topside structure comprising of a two level utility deck and five level accommodation module for 38 personnel. The project will be constructed to North Sea standards and is scheduled for delivery alongside the Jebel Ali quay in Q1 2012. At the end of 2010 fabrication had commenced following initial engineering and procurement activities.

Human resources

Attracting, developing and retaining talented staff is of paramount importance to the success of Lamprell as a business. At Lamprell we consider our employees to be our greatest asset and the continuous development and multi-skilling of our staff remains a focus for our success. The Human Resources ("HR") Department has developed policies and best practices for effective employee management enabling managers to capitalise on the strengths of the employees and their ability to contribute to the accomplishment of work. It is recognised that successful employee management helps employee motivation, development, and retention.

Lamprell continues to provide purpose-built accommodation and transportation for the labour force and this enhances our ability to attract and retain our workforce, and dramatically improves the quality and work/ life balance expectations of the employees.

We aim to provide a safe and supportive work environment to our employees, who are from diverse cultural backgrounds, and to do so in an environment that provides a competitive compensation programme that is affordable to the Company. We believe this continues to be a market differentiator and will strengthen our position as an "employer of choice" into 2011 and beyond.

The HR department continues to work closely with senior business leaders on strategy execution, in particular designing HR systems and processes that address strategic business issues, organisational and people capability-building, as well as longer term resource and succession management planning.

Operating facilities

In accordance with our organic growth model, the structured capital investment program at all facilities continued throughout 2010. The primary aims of this investment include higher levels of safety and productivity, as well as improving the working environment for both operational and administrative personnel.

The main area of investment throughout 2010 remained the phased construction of the new Hamriyah facility. At the year end the facility was fully operational with the key components of the yard completed. The construction process continues and completion of the facility including a new administration building, main stores and state-of-the-art structural fabrication and piping workshops is scheduled for Q4 2011.

After a review by management, the Board agreed to terminate the Group's operation in Thailand with effect from 31 December 2010.

Chris Hand

Chief Operating Officer

Financial Review

Results for the year from operations

* For the current year stated before reflecting exceptional charges arising from the closure of Lamprell Asia Limited amounting to US$ 1.4 million.

Group revenue increased by 18.4% to US$ 503.8 million (2009: US$ 425.5 million) reflecting an increase in activity from the prior year. The increase was largely driven by a higher level of revenues generated from the offshore new build activity, based in Jebel Ali, including construction of Floating Production, Storage and Offloading units, accommodation units and also two offshore wellhead platforms.

Revenue generated from EPC projects was marginally lower than the prior year as three major projects were delivered in 2009, including one new build jackup and two new build liftboats. Revenue in 2010 largely reflects the delivery of one new build jackup and the commencement of a number of new projects including three liftboats for the windfarm installation sector and two new build jackups, all with deliveries scheduled for 2012. The prior year also reflected an adjustment to revenue arising from a price discount given on the completion of a self erecting tender assist drilling unit for BassDrill Alpha Ltd amounting to US$ 23 million.

Revenue from jackup rig upgrade and refurbishment activity was largely in line with the prior year but reflected a higher number of rigs refurbished with a continued lower level of average expenditure. Revenue from refurbishment activity generated in H2 2010 reflected a reduction in activity from H1 2010 due to a reduction in the number of refurbishment projects.

Revenue from Oilfield Engineering services, related to the refurbishment and construction of land rigs and land camps, reflected a decline from the prior year in line with the market conditions which existed during the year. Revenue from International Inspection Services Limited ("Inspec") also declined, reflecting reduced demand in the year for inspection and non-destructive testing services.

Gross profit increased by 29.0% to US$ 79.7 million (2009: US$ 61.8 million) resulting in a gross margin of 15.8% (2009: 14.5%). The gross margin on EPC projects in 2010, which is generally lower as a result of a higher level of procurement both in respect of material purchases and sub-contractor work, reflected a positive contribution on the successful completion of the Scorpion Mischief project. However, the gross margin also reflected initial revenues on the commencement of three new EPC projects contracted with lower margins, with two of these contracts reflecting no margin, as the projects were less than 20% complete at the year end. The gross margin was also impacted positively by a number of other one-off projects including land rig refurbishment. The gross margin on rig refurbishment continues to be lower than in prior years as a result of the reduced scopes of work being undertaken and generally tighter market conditions.

Adjusted EBITDA (before exceptional charges) increased to US$ 78.4 million (2009: US$ 41.2 million) a rise of 90.3% over the prior year reflecting an improved operating performance and also a gain related to the cancellation of the contract with Riginvest G.P. ("Riginvest"), amounting to US$ 23.9 million, net of additional costs, arising as a result of the gain from the contract cancellation, amounting to US$ 3.5 million. The prior year results also reflected a price discount on an EPC project amounting to US$ 23 million. Exceptional charges in 2010 reflect the cost of closure of Lamprell Asia Limited amounting to US$ 1.4 million. Adjusted EBITDA margin (before exceptional charges) for the year was 15.6% (2009: 9.7%) reflecting the increase in operating margin.

Adjusted operating profit (before exceptional charges) for the year increased by 149.1% to US$ 69.5 million (2009: US$ 27.9 million) largely comprising the increase in gross profit, the net gain related to the cancellation of the contract with Riginvest and the price discount reflected in the prior year results. The adjusted operating margin (before exceptional charges) of 13.8% reflects an increase from the operating margin in the prior year of 6.6%.

The adjusted net profit (before exceptional charges) increased by 134.5% to US$ 66.6 million (2009: US$ 28.4 million) in line with the operating profit and also reflects net interest costs in the current year of US$ 2.9 million (2009: US$ 0.5 million net income) largely arising as a result of facility and guarantee charges related to new contact awards in the year. The adjusted net margin (before exceptional charges) of 13.2% reflects an increase from the net margin in the prior year of 6.7%.

Interest income

Interest income of US$ 2.2 million (2009: US$ 1.4 million) relates mainly to bank interest earned on surplus funds deposited on a short term basis. The increase reflects a lower level of average deposit rates but higher cash balances during the year when compared to 2009.

Taxation

The Company, which is incorporated in the Isle of Man, has no income tax liability for the year ended 31 December 2010 as it is taxable at 0% in line with local Isle of Man tax legislation. The Group is not currently subject to income tax in respect of its operations carried out in the United Arab Emirates, and does not anticipate any liability to income tax arising in the foreseeable future. In December 2008, Lamprell Asia Limited, was granted Board of Investment privileges which allowed the Company's wholly owned subsidiary in Thailand to operate with a tax exempt status for a period of up to eight years. Lamprell Asia Limited ceased operations in December 2010.

Earnings per share

Fully diluted adjusted earnings per share (before exceptional charges) for 2010 increased to 33.25 cents (2009: 14.20 cents) reflecting the increased profit of the Group for the year.

The Group's net cash flow from operating activities for the year reflected a net inflow of US$ 232.8 million (2009: US$ 23.9 million net outflow). The net cash inflow from operations was significantly higher than the prior year and mainly reflects increased profit for the year and movements in working capital. Changes in working capital were largely comprised of a decrease in inventory, resulting from the issue of stock for new build jackups, and an increase in trade and other receivables, mainly related to amounts due from customers on contracts and contract work-in-progress from predominantly EPC projects, as five major projects were commenced during the year. Trade and other payables reflect a significant increase largely arising from increased amounts due to customers on contracts at 31 December 2010 amounting to US$ 79.8 million (2009 US$ 20.2 million), and an increase in advances received for contract work of US$ 43.6 million (2009 US$ nil) largely in respect of a cash advance on a contract which had not commenced at the year end. Other working capital movements reflect timing differences in respect to other receivables and also supplier commitments primarily on the larger EPC contracts.

Investing activities for the year absorbed US$ 99.4 million (2009: US$ 20.1 million) as a result of the continued investment in property, plant and equipment amounting to US$ 29.7 million (2009: US$ 18.5 million), largely comprising investment in the new Hamriyah facility and the purchase of operating equipment, and also increased deposits of US$ 63.6 million and a held-to-maturity investment of US$ 6.9 million. This investment activity was offset by interest income of US$ 2.2 million received from surplus funds.

Net cash used in financing activities reflected an amount of US$ 46.3 million (2009: US$ 3.0 million generated from financing activities). This represents dividend payments of US$ 15.2 million (2009: US$ 6.3 million), the purchase of treasury shares to meet the settlement of share awards to certain directors and staff of US$ 3.5 million (2009: US$ 1.7 million) the decrease in short term borrowings of US$ 22.5 million (2009: US$ 11.9 million increase) and increased finance costs of US$ 5.1 million (2009: US$ 0.9 million) largely arising as a result of facility and guarantee charges related to new contact awards in the year.

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment during the year amounted to US$ 29.7 million (2009: US$ 18.5 million). The main area of expenditure was the investment on buildings and related infrastructure at Group facilities amounting to US$ 20.2 million (2009: US$ 14.4 million), including capital work-in-progress, with additional committed expenditure amounting to US$ 13.6 million, reflecting the development of the infrastructure of the Group at all facilities but primarily expenditure at the new Hamriyah facility. Further expenditure on operating equipment amounted to US$ 8.6 million to support the growth in activities experienced during the year and to replace hired equipment, where this was deemed cost effective, and to enhance the useful life of a barge.   

Shareholders' equity

Shareholders' equity increased from US$ 234.8 million at 31 December 2009 to US$ 284.0 million at 31 December 2010. The movement mainly reflects the profit for the year of US$ 65.2 million net of dividends declared of US$ 15.2 million and treasury shares purchased of US$ 3.5 million. The movement also reflects a credit for the accounting for share based payments of US$ 2.1 million made to certain Directors and employees of the Group and charged to General and Administrative expenses.

Dividends

For the year ended 31 December 2010, the Board of Directors of the Group having duly considered the current market conditions, profit earned, cash generated during the year and taking note of the capital commitments for the year 2011, recommend a final dividend of 9.50 cents per share. If approved this will be paid to shareholders on 17 June 2011 provided they were on the register on 13 May 2011.

Scott Doak

Chief Financial Officer

Lamprell plc

Consolidated income statement

Lamprell plc

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

Lamprell plc

Consolidated balance sheet

Lamprell plc

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

 Lamprell plc

Consolidated cash flow statement

Lamprell plc

Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2010

1 Legal status and activities

Lamprell plc ("the Company") and its subsidiaries ("the Group") are engaged in the upgrade and refurbishment of offshore jackup rigs; fabrication; assembly and new build construction for the offshore oil and gas sector, including jackup rigs; Floating Production, Storage and Offloading and other offshore and onshore structures; and oilfield engineering services, including the upgrade and refurbishment of land rigs.

2 Basis of preparation

The Group is required to present its annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2010 in accordance with EU adopted International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee ("IFRIC") interpretations and those parts of the Isle of Man Companies Acts 1931-2004 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS.

This financial information has been extracted from the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2010 approved by the Board of Directors on 25 March 2010. The financial information comprises the Group balance sheets as of 31 December 2010 and 31 December 2009 and related Group income statement, statement of comprehensive income, cash flows, statement of changes in equity and related notes for the twelve months then ended, of Lamprell plc. This financial information has been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the measurement at fair value of share options, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and derivative financial instruments.

The preliminary results for the year ended 31 December 2010 have been prepared in accordance with the Listing Rules of the London Stock Exchange.

The preparation of financial information in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group's accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the Group financial information are disclosed in Note 4.

3 Accounting policies

The accounting policies used are consistent with those set out in the audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2009 and reviewed interim financial information for the period ended 30 June 2010, which are available on the Company's website, www.lamprell.com.

4 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

4.1 Critical accounting estimates and assumptions

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are as follows:

Revenue recognition

The Group uses the percentage-of-completion method in accounting for its contract revenue. Use of the percentage-of-completion method requires the Group to estimate the stage of completion of the contract to date as a proportion of the total contract work to be performed in accordance with the accounting policy. As a result, the Group is required to estimate the total cost to completion of all outstanding projects at each period end. The application of a 10% sensitivity to management estimates of the total costs to completion of all outstanding projects at the year end would result in the revenue and profit increasing by USD 12.1 million (2009: USD 4.7 million) if the total costs to completion are decreased by 10% and the revenue and profit decreasing by USD 10.7 million (2009: USD 4.4 million) if the total costs to completion are increased by 10%.

Employees' end of service benefits

The rate used for discounting the employees' post employment defined benefit obligation should be based on market yields on high quality corporate bonds. In countries where there is no deep market in such bonds, the market yields on government bonds should be used. In the UAE, there is no deep market either for corporate or government bonds and therefore, the discount rate has been estimated using the US AA-rated corporate bond market as a proxy. On this basis, the discount rate applied was 5.25% (2009: 5.75%). If the discount rate used was to differ by 0.5 points from management's estimates, the carrying amount of the employees' end of the service benefits provision at the balance sheet date would be an estimated USD 0.6 million (2009: USD 0.5 million) lower or USD 0.7 million (2009: USD 0.5 million) higher.

5 Segment information

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker has been identified as the Executive Directors who make strategic decisions. The Executive Directors review the Group's internal reporting in order to assess performance and allocate resources. Management has determined the operating segments based on these reports.

The Executive Directors consider the business mainly on the basis of the facilities from where the services are rendered. Management considers the performance of the business from Sharjah (SHJ), Hamriyah (HAM), Jebel Ali (JBA) and Thailand (THL) in addition to the performance of Oil Field Engineering (OFE) and International Inspection Services Limited (Inspec).

SHJ, HAM, JBA and OFE meet all the aggregation criteria required by IFRS 8 and are reported as a single segment (Segment A). Services provided from Inspec and THL do not meet the quantitative thresholds required by IFRS 8, and the results of these operations are included in the "all other segments" column.

The reportable operating segments derive their revenue from the upgrade and refurbishment of offshore jackup rigs, fabrication, assembly and new build construction for the offshore oil and gas sector, including FPSO and other offshore and onshore structures, oilfield engineering services, including the upgrade and refurbishment of land rigs.

Inspec derives its revenue from various services such as non-destructive pipeline testing, ultrasonic testing and heat treatment. THL derives its revenue from the upgrade and refurbishment of offshore jackup rigs, fabrication, assembly and new build construction for the offshore oil and gas sector and other offshore structures.

Sales between segments are carried out on agreed terms. The revenue from external parties reported to the Executive Directors is measured in a manner consistent with that in the consolidated income statement.

The Executive Directors assess the performance of the operating segments based on a measure of gross profit. The staff, equipment and certain subcontract costs are measured based on standard cost. The measurement basis excludes the effect of the common expenses for yard rent, repairs and maintenance and other miscellaneous expenses. The reconciliation of the gross profit is provided as follows:

Information about segment assets and liabilities is not reported to or used by the Executive Directors and accordingly, no measures of segment assets and liabilities are reported.

The breakdown of revenue from all the services is as follows:

The entity is domiciled in the UAE. The total revenue from external customers in respect of services performed in the UAE is USD 495 million (2009: USD 404 million), and the total revenue from external customers for work performed in other countries is USD 9 million (2009: USD 22 million).

Certain customers individually accounted for greater than 10% of the Group's revenue, shown in the table below:

The revenue from these customers is attributable to Segment A. The above customers in 2010 are not necessarily the same customers in 2009.

6 Other operating income

Other operating income of USD 23.9 million represents a gain on the cancellation of a contract with a customer during the year.

7 Cost of sales

8 Selling and distribution expenses

9 General and administrative expenses

During the year, the Group incurred total expenditure of USD 1.4 million for the closure of the LAL operations in Thailand. General and administrative expenses include USD 0.8 million and USD 0.6 million is included in 'Other (losses)/gains - net' due to the loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment.

10 Staff costs

11 Dividends

During the year (on 26 March 2010 and 20 August 2010), the Board of Directors of the Company approved dividends of USD 15.2 million comprising USD 7.6 million (US cents 3.8 per share) relating to 2009 and an interim dividend of USD 7.6 million (US cents 3.8 per share) for 2010. At 31 December 2010, unpaid dividends amounted to USD 51,000 (Note 20).

During 2009, (on 27 March 2009), the Board of Directors of the Company approved dividends of USD 6.3 million (US cents 3.15 per share) relating to 2008. At 31 December 2009, the unpaid dividend amounted to USD 34,000 (Note 20).

12 Earnings per share

(a) Basic

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to the equity holders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year excluding ordinary shares purchased by the Company and held as treasury shares (Note 18).

(b) Diluted

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. For the free share awards, options under executive share option plan and performance share plan, a calculation is done to determine the number of shares that could have been acquired at fair value (determined as the average annual market share price of the Company's shares) based on the monetary value of the subscription rights attached to outstanding share awards/options. The number of shares calculated as above is compared with the number of shares that would have been issued assuming the exercise of the share awards/options.

13 Held-to-maturity investment

The held-to-maturity investment represents a structured deposit with 100% capital protection, a guaranteed return of 1.75% and a variable return, which is linked to the performance of an underlying equity basket, which consists of ten equally weighted shares. The capital protected status of the investment is valid only if the investment is held to maturity. The variable component is considered as an embedded derivative, the fair value of which at the balance sheet date was Nil.

There is no provision for impairment against the held-to-maturity investment.

At 31 December 2010, the fair value of the held-to-maturity investment is USD 6.75 million (2009: Nil).

The held-to-maturity investment is denominated in UAE Dirhams.

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying amount of the held-to- maturity investment.

The held-to-maturity investment is held by the bank as a lien against a guarantee issued by the bank in the ordinary course of business.

14 Inventories

15 Trade and other receivables

16 Financial asset at fair value through profit or loss

On 27 November 2009, LEL subscribed for 28,000,000 shares in BassDrill Alpha Limited ("BassDrill") amounting to USD 5 million at the subscription price of USD 0.1786 per share. LEL entered into an option agreement with certain shareholders of BassDrill granting LEL the option to sell the BassDrill shares after twelve months at an option price of USD 0.0893 plus three month LIBOR + 3% per annum. Further LEL also granted certain shareholders of BassDrill the option to purchase the BassDrill shares held by LEL in the period starting from the date of issuance and ending after twenty four months at an option price of USD 0.1786 plus three month LIBOR + 3% per annum.

During 2009, a fair value loss of USD 2.5 million was recorded in 'other (losses)/gains - net' in the consolidated income statement based on management's estimate of the carrying value.

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are presented within 'operating activities' as part of changes in working capital in the consolidated cash flow statement.

In January 2011, LEL exercised the put option and realised USD 2.6 million in respect of this investment.

17 Cash and bank balances

18 Share capital

Issued and fully paid ordinary shares

The total authorised number of ordinary shares is 400 million shares (2009: 400 million shares) with a par value of 5 pence per share (2009: 5 pence per share).

During 2010, EBT acquired 722,453 shares (2009: 1,391,253 shares) of the Company. The total amount paid to acquire the shares was USD 3.5 million (2009: USD 1.7 million) and has been deducted from the Consolidated Retained earnings. Of the above, 781,574 shares (2009: 724,251 shares) amounting to USD 1.9 million (2009: USD 2.2 million) were issued to employees on vesting of the free shares and 1,277,138 shares (2009: 1,336,259 shares) are held as treasury shares at 31 December 2010. The Company has the right to reissue these shares at a later date. These shares will be issued on the vesting of the awards granted under free shares/share options/performance share plan to certain employees of the Group.

19 Derivative financial instruments

During the year, the Company entered into three forward contracts to hedge its foreign currency exposure with respect to certain supplier commitments in Euros. The notional principal amount at the date of inception of these contracts was Euro 142.02 million. These contracts mature within 24 months from the date of inception.

The full fair value of a hedging derivative is classified as a non-current asset or liability if the remaining maturity of the hedged item is more than 12 months and, as a current asset or liability, if the maturity of the hedged item is less than 12 months.

An amount of USD 304,000 was recorded in equity and an amount of USD 170,000 was recycled from equity to profit or loss during the year. The net movement in the fair value reserve during the year was USD 134,000.

The hedged highly probable forecast transactions denominated in foreign currency are expected to occur at various dates during the next 18 months. Gains and losses recognised in the hedging reserve in the consolidated statement of changes in equity on forward foreign exchange contracts as of 31 December 2010 are recognised in the consolidated income statement in the period or periods during which the hedged forecast transaction affects the consolidated income statement.

This risk is monitored on an ongoing basis with reference to the current fair value, a proportion of the notional amount of the contracts and the liquidity of the market. To control the level of credit risk taken, the Group assesses counterparties, using the same techniques as for other counterparties.

The derivative financial instruments are gross settled and the maturity profile based on the year end rates of the expected undiscounted amounts payable and receivable at 31 December 2010 are as follows:

20 Trade and other payables

21 Events after balance sheet date

The Board of Directors of the Company has proposed a dividend of 9.50 cents per share amounting to USD 19.0 million at a meeting held on 25 March 2011.

22 Statutory Accounts

This financial information is not the statutory accounts of the Company and the Group, a copy of which is required to be annexed to the Company's annual return to the Companies Registration Office in Isle of Man. A copy of the statutory accounts in respect of the year ended 31 December 2010 will be annexed to the Company's annual return for 2010. Consistent with prior years, the full financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2010 and the audit report thereon will be circulated to shareholders at least 20 working days before the AGM. A copy of the statutory accounts required to be annexed to the Company's annual return in respect of the year ended 31 December 2009 has been annexed to the Company's annual return for 2009 to the Companies Registration Office.

23 Further information is available on the Company's website, www.lamprell.com.

24 Directors' responsibilities statement

We confirm that to the best of our knowledge

·; The financial statements, have been prepared in accordance with the applicable set of accounting standards, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities and financial position and profit or loss of the company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and,

·; This announcement includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face.