Re Directorate

Bodycote International PLC
20 December 2001



Date:          Embargoed until 7.00am, Thursday 20 December 2001



BOARD CHANGES


Bodycote announces that following John Chesworth's previously announced
retirement as Chief Executive on 31 December 2001, he will also leave the
Board.

Dr. Bruce Farmer CBE, who is due to stand down as non-executive Chairman on 1
January 2002, will handover to James Wallace, currently Deputy Chairman.

Commenting on John Chesworth's retirement, Dr. Farmer said:

'John Chesworth has played a major role in making Bodycote the world leading
metallurgical services group that it is today.  John's focus and leadership
has put the group on a sound footing to address the challenges that lie ahead.
The Board and all the employees of the group join in thanking him for his
contribution and wish him a long and happy retirement.'


James Wallace


James Wallace was until recently the Deputy Chairman of Pifco Holdings Plc
which was the subject of an agreed takeover bid earlier this year and he has
served on the Board of Bodycote for the last seven years.



                                   - ENDS -


Enquiries to:


Dr Bruce Farmer
David Landless
Bodycote International PLC            Tel:  [phone] (pm only)

Jon Simmons
Financial Dynamics                    Tel:  [phone]