Director Appointment

Embargoed release

10 May 2011

Punch Taverns plc

Director Appointment

The Board of Punch Taverns plc ("Punch" or "the Group") today announces that Roddy Murray has been appointed as Finance Director Designate for the Spirit business that the Group is proposing to demerge later this year. Roddy will join Punch on 23 May 2011. He will join the Board of Spirit and assume the role of Finance Director at the time of demerger.

Roddy joins Punch from The BSS Group plc, where he was Group Finance Director from 2006 until its acquisition in December 2010. At BSS, Roddy played a key role in the Group's strong operational and financial performance, a reduction in gearing in challenging market conditions and the eventual sale of the business.

Previously, Roddy was Finance Director of Moss Bros plc from 2002 until 2005 and Finance Director of Mackay Stores from 1998 to 2002. Between 1989 and 1998 he held a number of senior positions with Guinness plc, United Distillers and Diageo. Prior to that, Roddy worked at British Airways and Price Waterhouse.

No further information is required to be disclosed in respect of Roddy Murray pursuant to Listing Rule 9.6.13R (1) to (6).

The Board also confirms that Steve Dando has been appointed to the position of Finance Director of Punch Taverns plc with immediate effect. This follows a period of Steve performing the role on an 'Acting' basis. As previously announced, Steve will continue in the role of Finance Director of Punch following the demerger of Spirit.

Ian Dyson, Chief Executive Officer, said:

"I am delighted to announce Roddy's appointment. He brings with him extensive strategic, operational and financial experience, having worked in leading businesses across a range of sectors. Roddy has a strong track record of achievement which will further strengthen the team that will lead Spirit following its demerger from Punch."

-ENDS-

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