Essex announce small profit

Essex have announced a pre-tax profit of £26,129 for the year ended December 31, 2005. This is slightly down on the 2004 figure of £27,707, while the balance sheet stood at £2,573,726.

David East, the chief executive, said the profit was reward for hard work during a tough year. "We are pleased that we have been able to show a profit once again, but this should not detract from the fact that 2005 was a very challenging year.

"We have worked extremely hard on examining all areas of expenditure, whilst ensuring that our cricket remains competitive and properly resourced. It is a fine balance, but the combination of our [National] League success and a modest surplus in 2005 indicates that the club is moving in a very positive direction.

East added that there were ambitious plans in the pipeline to try and secure the future financial health of Essex. "We have an exciting plan for a major redevelopment of the ground which is progressing well. Our objective is to have a top-class stadium with fantastic facilities, whilst ensuring the financial security of the club for the future.

"As guardians of the game in the county it is vital that we continue to support the recreational and developmental activities of the Essex County Cricket Board, whilst retaining our focus on achieving excellence on the professional field."