Northern provides the following update on the activities associated with the re-entry drilling of the Ottoland discovery well:

Following the successful running of the slotted liner to Total Depth and the installation of the wellhead, the drilling rig was released on 27th June 2007 and the location prepared for the testing phase. The downhole configuration requires no further modification and will allow for the long term production from the well. 

Testing equipment moved on to location 02 July 2007 to confirm rates prior to final design of facilities.

In accordance with the AIM Rules – Guidance for Mining and Oil & Gas Companies, the information contained in this announcement has been reviewed and signed off by the Exploration and Technical Director of Northern, Mr Graham Heard CGeol FGS, who has over 30 years experience as a petroleum geologist.

For further information please contact:

Northern Petroleum Plc
Derek Musgrove, Managing Director
Chris Foss, Finance Director
Graham Heard, Exploration and Technical Director
Tel: +44 (0)20 7743 6080

Investec
Michael Anstell / Paul Brett
Tel: +44 (0)20 7597 5000

Panmure Gordon & Co
Katherine Roe / Ashton Clanfield
Tel: +44 (0)20 7459 3600

Bishopsgate Communications Limited
Maxine Barnes / Nick Rome
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7562 3350