MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Rockhopper jumps on AiM debut

Rockhopper Exploration plc, the oil and gas exploration company with a number of licences in the North Falkland Basin, has announced that following the successful placing of 35,714,285 shares at 42p to raise £15 million (before expenses), its shares have been admitted to trading on AIM and dealings will commence at 8.00am today under the symbol: RKH.

Arden Partners Ltd is the Nominated Adviser, Joint Financial Adviser and Broker, HSBC Bank plc is the Joint Financial Adviser and Ambrian Partners Ltd is acting as Joint Broker to the Company.

The Rockhopper Group is currently the largest licence holder in the North Falkland Basin and owns a 100 per cent interest in four offshore production licences which cover approximately 5,800 sq. km. An extensive 2D (640sq. km.) and 3D (685sq. km.) seismic programme is planned. In addition, the Group has signed a farm-in agreement with Desire Petroleum plc whereby Rockhopper will earn up to a 15 per cent working interest in two further licences covering approximately 1,300 sq km by funding up to 30% of the costs of a three well drilling programme to be carried out during 2006 subject to a suitable drilling rig being available.

The North Falkland Basin has previously been subject to exploratory drilling, with six wells being drilled in 1998. These wells proved the existence of a world class source rock, with the British Geological Survey estimating that it may be the second richest source rock in the world. One well flowed live oil to the surface, and another flowed gas to the surface.

The company has a highly experienced board, led by Dr Pierre Jungels, who was the CEO of Enterprise Oil plc from 1996 to 2001.

Pierre Jungels, Executive Chairman of Rockhopper, said: 'I am delighted with the support we have had from institutions and new shareholders. The proceeds of the placing will allow us to carry out our seismic and drilling programmes, in what is a hugely prospective area.'

For further information, please contact:

Rockhopper Exploration plc

Sam Moody - Managing Director Tel: 01722 414419 Arden Partners Ltd

Paul Davies Tel: 020 7398 1635 Aquila Financial Ltd

Peter Reilly peterreill@aquila-financial.com Tel: 020 7849 3319

www.rockhopperexploration.co.uk