John Major becomes Grace Road member

John Major, the former Prime Minister and Surrey president, has become Leicestershire's newest member.

He filled in his application form and paid his £50 subscription during the Championship game between the sides at Grace Road, which Surrey won by seven wickets.

Mr Major stressed he would not be changing his allegiance from Surrey, whom he has supported for 50 years, but said: "I am delighted to become a member of Leicestershire, and when Surrey are not playing I shall try to come to Grace Road when I can.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the few days I have spent here for this game and I think it is a very attractive ground. It is a lovely ambience and I love the trees ringing the ground. I only live an hour or so down the road so it just seemed the logical thing to do. Nobody had to twist my arm.

"When I was in politics I always set aside some time to watch cricket but it was mainly high days and holidays. Now, although I am still busy, I have a little more time to watch some county cricket which I thoroughly enjoy. I look forward to watching and enjoying the cricket of both Surrey and Leicestershire next season."