09 May 2008

Statement re initiation of legal proceedings

The Board of Dobbies Garden Centres plc (“Dobbies” or the “Company”) (AIM: DGC) announces that on 8 May 2008 proceedings were initiated by West Coast Capital (Lios) Limited (“WCC”) seeking an interim order to block the Company’s proposed open offer to shareholders (the “Open Offer”).

The Board has carefully considered the merits of the Open Offer and believes that the Open Offer is in the best interests of the Company and all of its shareholders.  The Open Offer will enable the Company to progress its stated expansion plans and the Board believes that it provides access to funding on attractive terms in current market conditions which will be earnings enhancing.

The Company intends to present a robust defence of its strategy at the court hearing.

Dobbies is bound by legal process and confidentiality and it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.  The Board of Dobbies hopes for an early resolution in order to allow it to concentrate its energies on running the business to deliver returns to the benefit of all shareholders.

Enquiries:  
James Barnes, Chief Executive
Sharon Brown, Finance Director
Dobbies Garden Centres plc   Tel:  0131 663 6778
Sandy Fraser
Brewin Dolphin Limited (Nomad)   Tel: 0131 529 0272
 
Ben Woodford / Emma Kent / Antonia Coad
Bell Pottinger Corporate & Financial   Tel:  020 7861 3232

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