MIKE TAYLOR, 59, announced today that he would be retiring from his position as Marketing Manager of Hampshire County Cricket Club on 31st March 2002.

Mike Taylor

It will be 29 years to the day since Mike joined Hampshire from Nottinghamshire as a player on 1st April 1973.

Following eight successful seasons, including winning the County Championship in his first year, Mike then served on the Administrative Staff first as Assistant Secretary and from 1986 as Marketing Manager.

He is presently the longest serving member of of the Hampshire Staff and also the longest serving Marketing Manager on the County circuit.

"It has been a long innings but a very enjoyable one," says Mike.

"The game has seen a great many changes over the last three decades mainly for the good, but not in all cases."

"Hampshire's move to The Rose Bowl was of course a major change and one the club was destined to make to secure its future. Many challenges lie ahead and my good wishes go to the Club as The Rose Bowl is developed into an International venue."

© Hants CCC