Essex declare second consecutive loss

Essex have declared a loss before tax of £82,000 for 2014. The figure is slightly up on the loss for 2013 but is improved by the sale of fixed assests as the Chelmsford development begins.

Income from membership fell but general tickets sales remained strong, with NatWest T20 continuing to prove popular - Chelmsford regularly plays to packed houses for T20. Their attendances were boosted by hosting quarter-finals in both the NatWest T20 and Royal London Cup.

"In financial terms, 2014 turned out to be very similar to the previous year," David Acfield, club treasurer, commented. "This is despite the team reaching two Quarter-Finals and the sterling efforts of our highly efficient and highly regarded commercial team.

"In the first season of the new format for county cricket, net ticket and hospitality income was up compared to the previous year. Again T20 matches provided the lion's share and it remains to be seen whether the Royal London One-Day Cup played in the height of summer attracts more spectators in 2015.

"With the same format as 2014 continuing and with four days against the Australians, the budget for 2015 looks a little healthier."