Essex chairman Nigel Hilliard steps down

Essex finished third in Division Two last season

Essex chairman Nigel Hilliard has stepped down with immediate effect, but will stay as a member of the county's general committee.

The 64-year-old, who played for Essex's second XI, became chairman in 2001.

"This has not been an easy decision but with my other interests taking more of my time, I cannot give the role the time it deserves," he said.

Deputy chairman John Faragher will take on the acting role while a permanent replacement is found.