David Acfield has announced his resignation as Chairman of Essex County Cricket Club. David, who is 54, played for the Club between 1966 and 1986 and succeeded Doug Insole as the Club's chairman in 1993. David has been having increasing difficulty juggling his business and cricketing commitments, and feels the time is right to hand the future direction of the Club over to another.

On the announcement of his departure, David Acfield commented: "In the present circumstances it is in the best interest of the Club for someone else to take over the reins. The role of chairman in the modern game has become increasingly time consuming, and for many years I have tried to balance the conflicting demands of my various responsibilities in cricket, whilst holding down a full-time job. Unfortunately the situation has become impossible to sustain."

He continued: "After 35 years involvement with Essex it will be a huge wrench but I will, of course, be available to help the Club in any less demanding role. I would urge all of our members and supporters to get behind the players and committee at this difficult time, so that the Club can prosper once again."

David Acfield will remain on the ECB Management Board, and will continue with his committee responsibilities at both the MCC and ICC.

On hearing the news of David's resignation, Club President Doug Insole said: "David has made a huge contribution to Essex cricket in both playing and administrative capacities. He was an integral part of the great team of the 1980s, and since his retirement has worked tirelessly to further the Club's cause off the field. We fully respect his decision, but sincerely hope that this will not be the end of David's involvement with the Club."

The Essex Executive committee will meet in the near future to appoint David Acfield's successor.

David East Chief Executive

© ECCC