The firm cheering Hurricane season

ASHTEAD is expecting a boost from the hurricanes that have devastated the US.

The equipment rental group said hurricane season would require a major clean-up effort and then a multi-year rebuild programme.

Harvey and Irma have caused up to £150bn in damage to Florida and Texas over the past few days. Bosses said: ‘It is evident that it will result in an increase in demand for our fleet.’

Ashtead announced a 30pc growth in profit to £238m for the first quarter ending July 31.