In a move unprecedented in their history Somerset have named two high profile businessmen, Giles Clarke and Andrew Nash, both non committee members, as chairman and deputy chairman (corporate) of the club.

This move follows a decision made by members at the recent AGM to accept a new set of rules for running the club, that involve streamlining the general committee and the appointment of a chairman from outside of that committee.

Mr Clarke who lives in the north of the county is a life member of Somerset and has a considerable pedigree in the world of commerce. It is this connection that the club will be hoping that he can put to good use on their behalf.

In 1981 Mr Clarke founded Majestic Wine which he developed into a chain of twenty one stores, he co-founded Pet City which he built into a national chain of ninety four stores, and is currently Chairman of Safestore PLC which he co-founded in 1998. He is also the Chairman and majority owner of ATL Telecom, and Fosters Room, the largest event caterer in the West Country.

Andrew Nash lives at Cheddon Fitzpaine and was the Commercial Manager at Taunton Cider Company who during his time were a committed and enthusiastic sponsor of the Club. In 1991 he was principal of the successful management buy out of the company, and since 1997 he has been involved with a number of other MBO's.

The appointment of Giles Clarke and Andrew Nash will be welcome news for supporters who know that Somerset are in danger of being squeezed out of existence by the bigger and wealthier of the first class county sides.

The Somerset chief executive Peter Anderson has just stepped down after a three year stint as a Director of the England and Wales Cricket Board but during his time in that position he has become aware of the threat to non international hosting counties, of which Somerset is one.

The Somerset boss told me: "It is easy to see therefore why we are at risk if a cull comes. However now that the new constitution has been passed and the club have appointed Giles Clarke and Andrew Nash who will be able to drive up our sponsorship income base, it will make it difficult for us to be cut out in the future."

Giles Clarke said, "Although my prime area of responsibility is in the corporate field, I wish to be an active Chairman and take on all the areas of responsibility which this important position requires. I shall work closely with Robert Appleyard (vice chairman) who is well versed in the matter of running the Club".

Deputy chairman Andrew Nash said, "Giles Clarke is very well known in the corporate world and I am looking forward very much to assisting him in securing Somerset's financial future. I am fanatical about Somerset cricket and Giles is worse than me – so the drive to succeed will be there".

© SOMERSET