Statement re. Press Comment

Ashtead Group PLC
16 September 2002


                        Response to Media Speculation

The Board of Ashtead Group plc notes a press report regarding a purported cash 
offer for the Company. It therefore wishes to provide the following 
clarification.

An approach was received from two venture capital firms, acting jointly, in 
April of this year, which indicated an interest in entering into discussions 
which might or might not have led to an offer within a very broad price range. 
The approach was conditional upon very extensive due diligence and financing.

The matter was fully considered by the non-executive directors in consultation 
with the Company's legal and financial advisers. They regarded any possible 
offer as not recognising the full value of the Company. However, they made it 
clear to the venture capitalists that they would consider any firm offer which 
the non-executive directors believed to be in the interests of shareholders. No 
offer was forthcoming and discussions were terminated.

The Board is pleased to report that first quarter trading was in line with 
expectations. A fuller trading statement will be made as planned at the Annual 
General Meeting on Friday 20th September.
 

 

For further information:

Ashtead
Henry Staunton - Chairman                              Tel. [phone]
George Burnett - Chief Executive

Tulchan Communications 
Nigel Fairbrass / Andrew Grant                         Tel. [phone]



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