STEVE KIRBY has completed his move to local rivals Somerset on a three-year deal after Gloucestershire agreed to cancel his contract.

The fast bowler rejected offers from former county Yorkshire, Lancashire, Surrey and Hampshire to join Marcus Trescothick’s side.

The move allows him to continue living in Bristol where his family are settled and offers him the First Division cricket he craves to keep his hopes of playing for England alive.

Kirby told the Gloucestershire website: "I really enjoyed my time with Gloucestershire and John Bracewell did a lot for my career.

"He is a man of honour and I know that with the right backing he will bring the club success. It may take a little time, but the plans he is putting in place will prove effective.

"I want to say to the supporters that I respect them and have no wish to cause any offence by joining the club they consider their arch-rivals.

"It is just that I am still very ambitious to play for England and I feel I must be playing in the First Division of the County Championship to achieve that objective."