Trading Statement

Bodycote International PLC
20 December 2001



Date:          Embargoed until 7.00am, Thursday 20 December 2001



                            TRADING STATEMENT


Bodycote announces that after a relatively encouraging result in October, the
indications for November are disappointing primarily in our North American
businesses.  Heat treatment in France and Germany was also weak and the
outcome for the year is likely to be in the region of a pre-tax profit of £67m
before goodwill and exceptional items.

Over the last six months, management's efforts have focused on reducing the
Group's cost base and will continue to do so.  With the full year effect of
these reductions, the Board feels that there will be a satisfactory outcome in
2002.


                                   - ENDS -


Enquiries to:


David Landless, Group Finance Director
Bodycote International PLC                    Tel:  [phone] (pm only)


Jon Simmons
Financial Dynamics                            Tel:  [phone]