Eurotunnel, the company that manages the Channel Tunnel, turned in a slight profit last year despite the effects of the global economic crisis and a fire, it announced today (9 March).

But the1.4 million Euros profit in 2009 was far lower than the 34 million Euros it made last year.

The effects of a major fire in September 2008 and compensation payments, reduced the profits for 2009.

The fire broke out as a freight train was travelling through tunnel and caused serious damage to the line. Full services were not restored until February 2009.

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2010