James Gentilcore Appointed Non Executive Director of Edwards

Business Wire, Jan 21, 2008

CRAWLEY, WEST SUSSEX, England -- Leading vacuum equipment manufacturer Edwards, has announced the appointment of James Gentilcore to the board of Edwards Group Limited as a non-executive director. James was formerly president and chief operating officer of the Semiconductor Products Group of Brooks Automation Inc. He was, prior to their acquisition by Brooks, president and chief executive officer of Helix Technology Corporation.

"Jim has a strong track record in the vacuum and semiconductor arenas which includes directing effective growth strategies, strategic mergers and acquisitions, improving profitability and adding value to businesses. He will provide guidance to the Edwards management team as we drive forward our growth strategy," said Nigel Hunton, chief executive officer, Edwards.

Stephen Welton, chairman added, "On behalf of the board I am delighted to welcome Jim as a non-executive director. I am confident that his broad experience of operating at the highest levels of our key markets will bring significant insights to Edwards."

Notes to Editors

Edwards (formerly BOC Edwards) is a leading supplier of integrated solutions for the manufacture of semiconductors, flat panel displays, LEDs and solar cells. It is also a world leader in vacuum technology for industrial, scientific, process and R&D applications. Edwards employs around 4,000 people globally in the design, manufacture and support of high technology vacuum and abatement equipment. Edwards invented the concept of the low-maintenance, cost-effective commercial oil-free 'dry' vacuum pump, and now supplements this with a wide range of other pumping technologies as well as related products and services.

Information on Edwards can be accessed at www.edwardsvacuum.com