RNS Number:8212Q
Stagecoach Group PLC
13 October 2003


13 October 2003

Stagecoach Group plc welcomes rating upgrade to investment grade by Moody's
Investors Service

Stagecoach Group plc welcomes the announcement by Moody's Investors Service
today that it has upgraded the Group's senior unsecured credit rating to
investment grade.

Martin Griffiths, Group Finance Director, said: "The strategy followed by the
Group over the last 12 months has been clearly focused on reducing our exposure
to the more volatile and cyclical segments in North America and concentrating on
our strong and successful businesses in the North East and North Central regions
of the United States.

"Combined with the significant cash generated from disposals completed to date,
this has strengthened our financial position and improved our financial
flexibility. The rating upgrade for the Group reflects this position and further
strengthens our options for the refinancing of our Eurobond, which matures in
late 2004."

ENDS

Enquiries to:

Martin Griffiths, Group Finance Director, tel. 01738 442 111



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