WORCESTERSHIRE go into the new season with interest in membership at record levels.

Membership revenue is 14 per cent up on the same time last year with the number of members closing in on the 4,000 mark.

County chief executive Mark Newton said: "This sizeable increase reflects a number of factors including improved performances last season and the recruitment of some exciting new players like Nantie Hayward, Andrew Hall and Mark Harrity.

"Last year our crowds at Championship cricket rose by 21 per cent and it is clear a number of people liked what they saw and have decided to join this year.

"The fixture list at New Road is more attractive this year with visits by South Africa and Zimbabwe plus the new Twenty20 Cup competition."