Board Appointment

RNS Number:0214E
Thorntons PLC
05 June 2006



For Immediate Release                                                5 June 2006



                                 THORNTONS PLC


                            Appointment of Chairman



Thorntons PLC announces the appointment of John von Spreckelsen as Chairman of
the Company, effective from 5th June 2006.


John has a very strong record in the retail sector. He was previously Chief
Executive Officer of Budgens PLC for nine years, before moving to Somerfield plc
in 2000 as Executive Chairman. He was instrumental in reconstructing Somerfield
plc, and delivered excellent returns to shareholders.


He will be working in an executive capacity in determining the strategic plan
for Thorntons PLC going forward and will work closely with the Executive
Directors in the deliverance of the agreed plan.


John is currently Chairman of Gartmore European Investment Trust PLC as well as
Safestore Holdings Ltd in the UK and Forstinger Handel und Service GmbH in
Austria.



There are no further matters requiring disclosure under Listing Rule 9.6.13



Senior Independent Director, John Jackson commented:


"The Board are delighted that they have secured the services of such a high
calibre retail professional who has a proven track record of delivering
excellent shareholder returns in the businesses he has managed."


John von Spreckelsen, newly appointed Chairman said:


"Thorntons has an excellent product range and brand. I am looking forward to
making a contribution to this company which has such a great tradition and
heritage."



For further information contact:

Thorntons PLC
John von Spreckelsen - Chairman              07831 162 986
John Jackson - Senior Independent Director   01243 622 223
Peter Burdon - Chief Executive               01773 540 550

Buchanan Communications
Charles Ryland / Isabel Podda / Susanna Gale  020 7466 5000






                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END
BOAFTMRTMMBMBJF