Scorers body merges with ECB

The ECB has merged with the Association of Cricket Umpires and Scorers (ACU&S) following a ballot on its future.

Requiring a majority of two-thirds to be passed, more than 74% voted for the establishment of the ECB Association of Cricket Officials (ECB ACO) and for the ACU&S to be wound up. It will cease functioning from January 1, 2008. Formed in 1953, the ACU&S successfully developed umpire and scorer training courses and its reputation became worldwide.

Geoff Lowden, the chairman of the ACU&S, said: "The membership has taken a positive decision to move forward and to ensure the work done since the start of ACU&S is built upon. There is little doubt that the game has developed over the last few years and the demands on officials have increased at all levels. ECB ACO is in the ideal position to provide the support that the officials require."