Markel International, the specialty property and casualty insurer, today welcomed Standard & Poor’s upgrade of Markel Syndicate 3000, its Lloyd’s syndicate, from LSA 2pi to LSA 3pi.
 
Andy Davies, Finance Director, Markel International commented: “The upgrade of our syndicate recognises the disciplined approach we take to underwriting and the top quartile results we have seen to date.  We are confident that we can continue to improve performance by the application of our proven management disciplines.”

Standard & Poor’s stated: “the upgrade reflects the syndicate's improved operating performance for the 2002 YOA, strong forecast results for 2003 and 2004 and reducing reliance on reinsurance.“

Markel Corporation, the ultimate holding company, will announce earnings figures for the second quarter and first half of 2005 on 3rd August, 2005.

Ends

For further information:
Derah McCall
Markel International
020 7953 6732

Notes to editors:
1. Markel International Limited is a specialty property and casualty insurer. Based in London and comprising the international operations of Markel Corporation, it wrote gross premiums in 2004 of $ 746 million. It has five operating divisions writing business either through Markel Syndicate 3000 or through Markel International Insurance Company Limited.
2. Markel Corporation markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs for a variety of niche markets.  In each of these markets, the Company seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader.  The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value.
3. Please see attached a current picture of Andy Davies, Finance Director, Markel International