WH Smith has delayed the publication of its annual financial results as the retailer continues to grapple with the aftermath of accounting irregularities.

The company informed investors it now anticipates releasing its latest figures on Friday December 19, having previously scheduled them for Tuesday December 16.

The firm explained to shareholders that the postponement would allow auditor PwC "further time to complete the required audit procedures".

This represents the most recent in a series of delays, with the results initially scheduled for publication on November 12.

The postponement follows Carl Cowling's departure as WH Smith's chief executive last month, after a Deloitte investigation substantiated the accounting difficulties.

The retailer, which divested its UK high street ope

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