William Hill plc has been informed that Imelda Walsh, independent Non-Executive Director, is to be appointed as a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Remuneration Committee of Mothercare plc. Ms Walsh's appointment as a Non-Executive Director of Mothercare will be with effect from 1 June 2013 and she will be appointed as Chair of Mothercare's Remuneration Committee with effect from 18 July 2013.

Mothercare plc announced consolidated earnings results for the 52 weeks ended March 30, 2013. For the period, the company reported revenue of £749.4 million against £812.7 million for the same period a year ago. Profit from retail operations was £12.8 million against loss from retail operations of £6.9 million for the same period a year ago. Loss from operations was £17.8 million against £102.4 million for the same period a year ago. Loss before taxation was £21.5 million £102.9 million for the same period a year ago. Loss for the period attributable to equity holders of the parent was £22.0 million or 24.9 pence per basic and diluted share £91.8 million or 105.2 pence per basic and diluted share for the same period a year ago. Net cash flow from operating activities was £6.8 million against £5.6 million for the same period a year ago. Purchase of property, plant and equipment was £13.2 million against £21.7 million for the same period a year ago. Purchase of intangibles – software £3.0 million against £3.2 million for the same period a year ago. Underlying EPS was 6.2 pence compared to 1.8 pence a year ago. Net debt was £32.4 million against £20.1 million for the same period a year ago. Group underlying profit before tax was £8.3 million against £1.6 million for the same period a year ago. Total capital additions was £12.5 million against £26.0 million for the same period a year ago. Underlying loss was £21.7 million against £24.7 million for the same period a year ago. Net capital expenditure after landlord contributions was £9.0 million against £22.5 million for the same period a year ago.

Mothercare announced that it plans to close 50 stores. The company plans to open 115 outlets overseas.