Notice of EGM, etc.

FIRSTGROUP PLC
24 August 1999

                             FirstGroup plc
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Proposed Acquisition of Ryder Public Transportation Services, Inc ('Ryder')
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FirstGroup is pleased to announce that it has received the accountants' report
on the audited financial information on Ryder for the years ending 31 December
1996, 1997 and 1998. Accordingly, a circular has today been sent to
shareholders convening an Extraordinary General Meeting to be held on 9th
September to approve the acquisition.   Clearance for the acquisition has
also been obtained under the US Hart - Scott - Rodino Antitrust Improvement
Act.

Commenting, Moir Lockhead, Chief Executive of FirstGroup said:

'With the successful completion of the £238 million rights issue and the
conclusion of the audit process we are now able to move ahead to the EGM on
the 9 September.  We look forward to developing our new businesses in the
United States with confidence.'

Contact:
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Moir Lockhead,                                  0207 291 0502
Chief Executive 
FirstGroup plc        

Michael Mitchell,                               0207 291 0504
Director of Corporate Communications 
FirstGroup plc