Re Directorate

Hill & Smith Hldgs PLC
24 September 2001

RETIREMENT FROM THE BOARD

Hill & Smith Holdings PLC ('Hill & Smith' or the 'Company') announces the
forthcoming retirement on 30 September 2001 of Mr Simon Knott.  Mr Knott has
served Hill & Smith as a non-executive director for 20 years and has been
associated with the Company since its flotation in 1969.

The Board would like to express its thanks to Simon for his valued
contribution and commitment to Hill & Smith over the past 30 years.

For further information, please contact:

Hill & Smith Holdings PLC                                   Tel:  [phone]
David Grove, Chief Executive

Rawlings Financial PR Limited                               Tel:  [phone]
Catriona Valentine