FirstGroup shortlisted for ICEC rail franchise

20 February 2007

                                FIRSTGROUP PLC                                 

         FIRSTGROUP SHORTLISTED FOR THE INTERCITY EAST COAST FRANCHISE         

FirstGroup is delighted to be shortlisted by the Department for Transport (DfT)
to bid to operate the InterCity East Coast franchise.

Commenting on the DfT's announcement this morning Moir Lockhead, First's Chief
Executive said:

"We are absolutely delighted to be shortlisted again for the East Coast
franchise. This is a hugely important rail company linking Scotland, the North
East, Yorkshire, Peterborough and London. Customers in these regions already
enjoy travelling on three award winning First rail companies in First ScotRail,
First TransPennine Express and Hull Trains.

"Our final innovative bid will be based on attracting more customers to the
East Coast through offering improved quality of service and better value for
money."

Further information on the Group and its operations is available at 
www.firstgroup.com

Contacts FirstGroup plc:

Paul Moore, Public Affairs & Communications Director 01224 650125

Rachael Borthwick, Corporate Communications Director 020 7291 0508