PRUDENT planning and difficult decisions from Worcestershire have seen the New Road club post a six-figure profit for 2010.

The annual accounts released today show the County finished the year ending September 30 with a surplus of £103,627.

Given the current economic climate and tough times on the county cricket circuit —Lancashire announced a loss of £2million last month — the figures show just how well Worcestershire have done both on and off the field.

Steve Rhodes’ young side won a dramatic last-day return to LV= County Championship Division One despite England wicketkeeper Steve Davies, seamers Kabir Ali and Simon Jones, spinner Gareth Batty and opener Stephen Moore all departing.

However, the emergence of youngsters like Alexei Kervezee, Moeen Ali and Ben Cox, together with the experience of Alan Richardson, Matt Mason and new captain Daryl Mitchell all helped Worcestershire bounce back from their worst season in the championship for 81 years.

The six-figure profit comes just 12 months on from when Worcestershire announced losses of £118,439.

County chief executive David Leatherdale said: “Some difficult decisions and sacrifices have had to be made, both on and off the field, over the past 18 months.

“Despite the reductions in most income streams during 2010, with Twenty20 ticket sales hit particularly heavily during June and July due to the football World Cup, reductions in expenditure have given the club a stronger base going forward.

“The club has a long history with a loyal following and it is evident that the development of younger players is of key importance to members and supporters as the present positive response in terms of membership renewals for the 2011 season demonstrates.

“The last few seasons have been up and down and, while the economic climate is likely to be difficult going forward, it is vital we ensure the club has a future which is both viable and sustainable.

“Division One cricket will test the squad and retaining this status beyond 2011 will be a major achievement.”