Railtrack today announced that John Robinson would be joining the board on
June 4 and take over as Chairman on July 2.

Mr Robinson who recently retired as Chairman of Smith & Nephew is
currently Chairman of George Wimpey PLC and mining group, RJB Mining PLC and
Low & Bonar PLC.


The announcement follows the recent strengthening of the Railtrack board
with the appointment of David Harding as Finance Director, Sebastian Bull as
Business Development Director and David Jones as a new non-executive Director.

Welcoming the appointment, Sir Philip Beck, Chairman of Railtrack said:
'John Robinson is an experienced leader with a good working knowledge of
regulated environments and highly visible companies. He is well respected for
his experience and effectiveness and is not afraid of tackling difficult
situations.'

Commenting on his new post, John Robinson said; 'Chairing Railtrack is a
challenging and demanding position. The railway plays a vital role in the
economic well being of the UK and it is therefore essential for the country
that Railtrack is strong and effective.

'There will undoubtedly be tough times ahead, and in the short-term
difficult issues to face. However, I intend to lead the Railtrack team towards
the goal of building a world leading railway network in the long term.

'I look forward to working with the Railtrack management team and I will
initially be spending my time meeting people in the business and learning
about the railway.'

Steve Marshall, Railtrack Chief Executive said: 'I welcome John to the
Railtrack team and am eager to start working with him to rebuild the company's
reputation and deliver the railway our customers and the travelling public
rightly expect.'


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For more information please contact the Railtrack press office on 020 7557 8292.

All recent press releases can be found on the Railtrack web site
www.railtrack.co.uk/corporate

Railnews Archive ::: 2001-05-17 RTK-001