The president of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Inc., Alasdair Stewart has announced the appointment of John G. Crawford to the role of director of public relations for North America. Mr Crawford is expected to take up his new position at the end of the first quarter of 1999.

Speaking about the new appointment, Mr Stewart said "John brings outstanding credentials to this position. He is a widely experienced public relations executive, who is well versed in the special qualities of British marques and his extensive background in media relations will help us develop a heightened profile for Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars in North America. I am delighted we have secured an executive of his calibre as we go forward to meet the challenges which lay ahead for our company."

John Crawford, who comes from Australia, has worked in automotive public relations for more than 20 years and has served with distinction with a wide variety of brands, including Jaguar, Land Rover, Peugeot, Rover, Honda and most recently Daewoo.

Mr Stewart added " It will be a great asset for us to have John's enthusiasm and energy driving our public relations programs. He is a great communicator, who I am sure will inspire and generate great interest in our products because of his passion for cars. John will be in the U.S. for a series of meetings in early January, so will take the opportunity of visiting the North American International Auto Show in Detroit to meet his many friends in the media and the industry."