Centurion Energy ended 2005 with daily Egyptian gas output up 80 per cent to 38,000 barrels of oil equivalent.

Centurion, which is listed on AIM and Toronto and operates chiefly in Egypt with some interests elsewhere in North Africa, has kept up the pace since the end of the year. President and chief executive officer Said Arrata says its Egyptian production, mostly from the company's El Wastani lease, has now reached 41,500 barrels of oil equivalent a day, claiming this 'bodes well for future exploration activities'.

First recommended by Growth Company Investor at the time of the company's 2003 float at 56.6p, Centurion shares later soared to £8, where we suggested partial profit taking. Last November we noted their speculative potential at 507p, since when they have reached 560p, down 5p today.

They still have speculative possibilities.