STOCKS NEWS EUROPE-FirstGroup lifted by H1 results, outlook

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08:20GMT 05Nov2008-FirstGroup lifted by H1 results, outlook

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British Firstgroup Plc's (FGP.L) shares rise as much as 6.3 percent before easing back in early trading after the bus and train operator posts first-half results that meet forecasts and says its second half has started well with trading in line with expectations.

Cazenove analysts, who rate FirstGroup stock an "outperform", say it delivered "a solid set of first-half results in line with our expectations and demonstrating strong growth. FirstGroup remains our favoured pick in the sector given its low exposure to rail activites, which we view as the most economically sensitive aspect of public transport activities".

To see FirstGroup's statement please click on [ID:nPRr56569a]

Reuters messaging rm://dan.lalor.reuters.com@reuters.net

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