Readers are awaiting news on the release of the final Potter book

The group said the launch of the paperback edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince helped lift first-half revenues 6.5% to �37.3m.

Bloomsbury added that profits in its adult titles section had also risen after three of its titles were selected by the Richard & Judy Book Club.

Pre-tax profits in six months to 30 June increased 3.4% to �4.22m.

Bloomsbury added the second half of 2006 had started well and it was looking forward to continued growth.

The group is due to unveil the seventh and final book in the Harry Potter series - although a release date is yet to be set - while the July 2007 release of the latest film in the magician franchise should deliver further benefits.