GLOUCESTERSHIRE chief executive Tom Richardson will leave the club in September after 12 years in the post.

Richardson played a key role in pushing through the redevelopment of the County Ground in Bristol, with work getting underway last October.

The club has endured highs and lows on the pitch since he succeeded Colin Sexstone, with C&G Trophy triumphs at Lord’s in 2003 and 2004 followed by eight barren years.

However, Richardson feels it is the right time to move on.

He said: “It is a logical break point as we aim to have completed the development of the pavilion and media centre at the end of July.

“I have hugely enjoyed my time at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club and feel privileged to have been involved for so long.

“Clearly getting started on the development has been a major lift for the club and I am really pleased to have played a full part in that.

“There is a real buzz about the place at the moment and whilst in some ways it will be sad not to be involved next year it is time for me to move on.

“However, all that said, there is a lot to achieve in order to be ready for both the season and the opening of the pavilion and I am really looking forward to doing all of that.”

Gloucestershire chairman Rex Body paid tribute to Richardson.

He said: “We are very sorry to see Tom go and greatly appreciate everything he has done for us during his time with the club.

“We do, however, fully understand his reasons for going at this time. Tom’s value to GCCC cannot be overestimated, particularly the work he has done on our ground development programme, in at times extremely difficult circumstances.

“I am extremely grateful to Tom for all that he has achieved for us and I have enjoyed working with him during my years on the executive board and as chairman.

“I am delighted that he will remain associated with the club by taking on a role in our Youth Trust activities once he leaves his post.”