A search for Cephei-type variability in a sample of intermediate-to high-Galactic-latitude B-type stars

We have photometrically monitored nine intermediate- to high-Galactic-latitude B-type stars for β Cephei-type variability. One star, HD 204076, shows a clearly sinusoidal variation with an amplitude of ∼0.015 mag and a period of a few hours, typical of β Cephei stars. One other (HD 206144) is possibly a longer term variable at the 2 per cent level, while two objects, HD 219188 and HD 118246, may be variable at a smaller amplitude of <0.01 mag. The remaining five stars show no signs of any periodic changes above 0.01 mag and are therefore unlikely to belong to the β Cephei class of variable