Exhibit 99.1


                    ETHYL CORPORATION OBTAINS LOAN EXTENSION

Richmond, VA, March 3, 2003 - Ethyl Corporation (NYSE: EY) announced today that
it has satisfied all conditions for the extension of its current credit facility
and the maturity date has been extended to March 31, 2004. The Company is
pleased to have obtained the extension and will continue to focus on improving
profits and providing customers with top quality products.


                            FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:

                                David A. Fiorenza

                               Investor Relations

                               Phone: 804-788-5555

                                Fax: 804-788-5688

                       Email: investorrelations@ethyl.com