re: qjump

National Express Group PLC
09 February 2004

Press release



Monday 9 February 2004



                           National Express Group PLC

   Merger of Qjump, the on-line rail ticketing operation, with Trainline.com



National Express Group PLC ('the Group') announces the merger of Qjump Limited,
its on-line rail ticketing operation, with Trainline.com Limited with immediate
effect. The combined business consolidates Trainline's position as the UK's
leading rail ticketing retailer.



As part of this transaction the Group will take a 14% shareholding in the
enlarged Trainline.com operation and have representation on the Trainline.com
board.



Commenting on the announcement, Phil White, Chief Executive said;



'There has been considerable growth in the demand for on-line rail ticketing
over the past few years and today's merger is the logical next step for the
development of this channel.  We believe there are benefits for both passengers
and the rail industry in one strong party providing a direct portal for all
sales.  By combining the two operations, we feel that the operation will become
stronger and a more successful company moving forward.  Trainline has a strong
brand and a good reputation and we believe that the enhanced scale resulting
from this merger will ensure the continued growth of this on-line channel.'



National Express Group PLC will release its full year results for the year ended
31 December 2003 on 26 February 2004.



                                    - ENDS -

Notes to Editors:



Trainline Rail Enquiry Service Ltd and Trainline.com Ltd are wholly owned
subsidiaries of Trainline Holdings Ltd, which is owned by travel groups, Virgin
Group (72.8%), National Express Group PLC (14%) and Virgin Rail Group (13.2%).



For further information:



Nicola Marsden/Fiona Noblet
Group Communications
National Express Group PLC      020 7529 2000








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