The mining group, Zimplats, reported record production of 51,981oz for the three months to July, compared to 39,674oz during the previous quarter.

These record figures come in spite of a furnace breakdown at the company's Selous Metallurgical Complex at the weekend.

Zimplats officials are still assessing the full extent of the damage but reports suggest that the furnace could be out of action for up to two months.

The company is currently the subject of bid speculation from its majority shareholder, Impala Platinum.

Impala is waiting on a decision from Zimplats' minority shareholders over its AUS $4.08 share/cash offer.