Johnston Press has become aware that a number of shareholders have received unsolicited phone calls or correspondence concerning their investment in the Company.

These are typically from overseas based 'brokers' who target UK shareholders, offering to deal in the Company's shares very significantly above the current share price. In some cases the caller suggests that there is currently a takeover offer for the Company.  There is no such offer and we believe this will lead to an attempt to persuade shareholders to pay an upfront fee often described by them as an 'insurance fee' or a 'bond'.

These operations are commonly known as 'boiler rooms'. These 'brokers' can be very persistent and extremely persuasive.  We are aware that callers attempt to persuade shareholders to provide email addresses or other personal information.  Shareholders should not provide any such details.  Shareholders have advised us that they have been contacted by Peregrine International Consulting Group and Greyson Consulting Group making offers of this nature.  So far as the Company is aware, neither of these organisations is registered with the United Kingdom Financial Services Authority ('FSA').  Should you be approached with a  similar offer the FSA advise that you contact them to report it (see below).

Shareholders are advised to be very wary of any unsolicited advice, offers to buy shares or offers of free company reports. If you receive any unsolicited investment advice:

• Make sure you get the correct name of the person and organisation
• Check that they are properly authorised by the FSA before getting involved by visiting www.fsa.gov.uk/register/ and contacting the firm using the details on the register
• Report the matter to the FSA either by calling 0845 606 1234 or visiting www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk
• If the calls persist, hang up.

If you deal with an unauthorised firm, you will not be eligible to receive payment under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. The FSA can be contacted by completing an online form at www.fsa.gov.uk/pages/doing/regulated/law/alerts/overseas.shtml

Details of any share dealing facilities that the company endorses will be included in company mailings.

More detailed information on this or similar activity can be found on the CFEB website www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk