Issue of Debt

31 March 2009

                                FIRSTGROUP PLC                                 

                               £350M BOND ISSUE                                

FirstGroup plc ('The Group') is pleased to announce the successful launch of 
£350m 12-year bonds.

In line with the Group's strategy to extend its debt duration and reduce
reliance on bank debt the proceeds will be used to repay existing debt. The
bond has a coupon of 8.75%.

Commenting on the issue, Nick Chevis, Acting Finance Director, said:

"We are pleased by the success of the launch which was more than 50%
oversubscribed and attracted a high quality order book. This will be the
Group's fourth bond issue and we are delighted by the continuing support from
fixed-income investors demonstrating the strength and resilience of the Group.

"The launch represents further progression of our plans to reduce reliance on
bank debt and extend our debt maturity profile."

The issue is expected to close on 8 April 2009.

FirstGroup Contacts:

Nick Chevis, Acting Finance Director, Tel: [phone]

Rachael Borthwick, Corporate Communications Director, Tel: [phone]

Ian Weldon, Group Treasurer, Tel: [phone]