Hello Share Shapers. Normally, this old punter avoids firms in the ‘defence’ sector. I find that defence can mean offence and the thought of my money killing and maiming people is something I want now’t to do with. But Avon Protection (AVON) keeps safe soldiers and police men and women, which is a different kettle of fish.

Previously writing on provider of technology-based training and support to the defence and regulated civilian sectors, Pennant International (PEN), last year with the shares down to 36p I noted its cash flow is clearly currently unsustainable and it is profitable orders conversion which is key. The company has now announced calendar year 2020 results including emphasising “a much-improved performance in the second half of the year” and “year-end order book stood at £31 million… of which £14 million of revenue… is scheduled for recognition within one year”. Why are the shares, at 38p, approaching 14% lower in response?…

Having risen above 2p in 2014 and then declined to commence 2017 at well below 1p, last year saw a recovery in shares in surface coating technology company Hardide (HDD). It’s now updated in conjunction with its AGM…