At the end of the third day's play, during which he had seen his side get the vital fifth bonus point to ensure themselves of runners up spot in the County Championship, Somerset Coach Kevin Shine told me, "The club made history today.

The players have done everything to get us here and been dedicated to the task all season. Second in the Championship and winners of the Cheltenham and Gloucester Trophy, they've done really well, and we're very proud of them." Skipper Jamie Cox, who has led Somerset to their highest ever finish in county cricket's blue riband event said,"It's good to get the job done. Now we can relax and enjoy the rest of the season."

What about next year I asked him. "Next year we will have another crack at it, knowing that we beat this years champions Yorkshire at Headingley, and drew with them at Bath. We know that we are good enough to compete with the best."

© SOMERSET