The revaluation of the investment property portfolio at the year end has resulted in a net valuation surplus for the year of £144,508,000 (2016 - £117,947,000). The board has recommended a final dividend of 63p per share in respect of the year ended 31 March 2017 payable on 10 November 2017 to shareholders on the register on 13 October 2017. This will make a total dividend for the year of 98p (2016 - 93p).
Earnings per share is calculated by reference to profit on ordinary activities after taxation attributable to equity holders of the parent of £161,779,000 (2016 - £142,900,000) and 16,295,357 (2016 - 16,295,357) ordinary shares being the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. Equity shareholders' funds per share is calculated by reference to total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent of £1,655,715,000 (2016 - £1,480,025,000) and the ordinary shares detailed above.
