Trading Update

8 April 2011

Northern Bear PLC

("Northern Bear" or the "Company")

Trading Update

As a result of the severe weather conditions in November and December 2010, the Company traded below market expectations. Trading conditions improved in January, and activity has increased further since that time. Whilst March was a very positive month, the markedly improved environment has not been sufficient to enable the Company to trade in line with market expectations. As a result, the Board expects profit for the year ending 31 March 2011 to be below market expectations.

**ENDS**

For further information contact:

Northern Bear Plc

Graham Forrest - Chief Executive Officer 0776 4963751

Strand Hanson Ltd

James Harris / James Spinney/ Rory Chichester 020 7409 3494

Seymour Pierce Ltd

David Banks / Paul Jewell / Katie Ratner 020 7107 8000