Worcs off-field success continues

Worcestershire have continued their off-field success by declaring a surplus for the fourth successive year.

Despite struggling on the field, the county have continued to run a profitable business and announced a surplus for £59,833 for the year ending September 30, 2013.

Last season saw Worcestershire benefit from hosting the Australians and the next phase in the development of New Road began with new conference and banqueting facilities along with a Premier Inn hotel built along with, which is expected to attract 35,000 visitors a year.

The new facilities are designed to drive non-cricket revenue and create a "365-day-a-year" venue. The development also includes new accommodation for members and sales for 2014 proved extremely popular.

"We are delighted to show a surplus for the fourth consecutive year despite considerable disruption during the construction of the now completed "View" development scheme," David Leatherdale, Worcestershire chief executive, said.

"Five winter floods and the coldest March for many years severely affected the early construction phase resulting in a three month delay and a shortfall against budgeted revenue of in excess of £500,000. This was particularly noticeable across the catering and commercial areas due to the expected new facilities and seating being unavailable for our key Australia tourist match in July and the whole of the home T20 campaign.

"But the launch of our new membership packages for the 2014 season in September 2013 saw the new elite "View" membership facility sell out in less than four weeks. It is fair to say we now have facilities to admire which will be of real benefit to members, spectators and the city alike.

"This can only help the Club achieve our aim of being a truly 365 day a year business generating new and sustainable cricket and non-cricket revenue which can be re-invested back in the team and the club over the years to come."