Trading Statement

John David Sports PLC
17 January 2001

                                                17 January 2001

                            JOHN DAVID SPORTS PLC

                           CHRISTMAS TRADING UPDATE

John David Sports Plc ('JD'), a leading specialist retailer of fashionable
branded sports and leisurewear, is pleased to announce its trading performance
over the Christmas and New Year trading period.

In its Interim results announcement on 29 November 2000, JD reported that a
like for like sales increase of 7.1% for the 8 week period ending 25 November
had been achieved and that gross profit margins had been increased.

Set against the demanding comparatives of the previous Christmas trading
period, the company is very pleased to announce the continuation of strong
trading through the vital Christmas and New Year period.  In the six weeks
ended 6 January, total sales increased by 16.8% and included a like for like
sales uplift of 6.8%.  The gross profit margin improvement reported in the
Interim Announcement was also maintained.

John Wardle, Chairman, said: 'The trading results strongly support the
strategic initiatives of the company and its focused approach towards brand
differentiation and brand development.  Whilst stimulated by effective
marketing campaigns, demand was strong for all product ranges and the larger
stores, in particular, were able to benefit from the extended product
offerings.'

He continued: 'I am very pleased with continued sales uplift and gross profit
margin achieved in the year to date.  I am confident that the company is well
placed to achieve its objectives and to deliver continued growth.'

Enquiries:          JOHN DAVID SPORTS PLC             HUDSON SANDLER LTD
                    Barry Bown, Chief Executive       Andrew Hayes/Penny Davis
                    Peter Cowgill, Finance Director   0207 796 4133
                    01706 628000