Lancashire announce record profit

Lancashire have announced record profits of £557,000 for 2004, the season they were relegated to the second division of the County Championship. That was despite the NatWest Series match between England and New Zealand and the second day of the West Indies Test being washed out.

A statement said increased revenue from membership, car parking, catering and advertising boosted the club. They make good use of Manchester United home games to generate extra revenue at their on-site hotel. Despite being relegated Lancashire can expect another profitable year with an Ashes Test that is almost sold out and two matches against Yorkshire at Old Trafford.

The chances of the club moving to East Manchester seem to be rapidly receding - the latest report on the consultation process is due at the AGM on Saturday - and more work is being done around the ground. Another stand has been pulled down, and temporary seating will increase the capacity to 22,000 for the Ashes Test.