Statement re FirstGroup shortlisted for rail fr...

24 March 2011

                                FIRSTGROUP PLC                                 

                           ("First" or "The Group")                            

         FIRSTGROUP SHORTLISTED FOR THE INTERCITY WEST COAST FRANCHISE         

FirstGroup, the leading transport operator in the UK and North America,
welcomed today's announcement by the Department for Transport confirming that
the Group has successfully pre-qualified for the InterCity West Coast rail
franchise.

Commenting, Tim O'Toole, FirstGroup's Chief Executive said:

"We are delighted to be shortlisted for the InterCity West Coast franchise. As
the UK's largest rail operator we have unrivalled experience combined with a
strong track record of innovation, investment and of working in partnership to
deliver high quality services and increased capacity for customers.

"This important franchise links London to the West Midlands, North West
England, North Wales and Scotland and provides an opportunity for us to build
on the success of First TransPennine Express and First ScotRail, our award
winning rail operations already serving customers in some of these areas.

"We intend to offer compelling and innovative proposals to deliver high quality
and attractive services for customers and improved value for taxpayers. We look
forward to consulting with local, regional and national stakeholders as we
continue to develop our forward looking plans for this key franchise."

Contacts FirstGroup plc:

Rachael Borthwick, Group Corporate Communications Director

Tel: [phone]