Billy Taylor has been rewarded with a testimonial dinner for his six years service to Hampshire.

Southampton-born Taylor, who will spend the forthcoming season playing for Totton & Eling CC, spent his last three seasons at the Rose Bowl as a one-day specialist, but still took 65 first-class wickets for the county.

After helping Sussex win the first of three County Championship titles in five years in 2003, Taylor denied himself a benefit at Hove by returning to his home county.

He soon became a crowd favourite at the Rose Bowl, taking 73 wickets in 65 one-day matches for Hampshire, at 29.58 apiece, before being released at the end of last season.

Currently on an umpiring course, the 33-year-old has also taken on a player-coach role at Totton & Eling CC, where he will be reunited with former Hampshire teammate Derek Kenway this summer.

Taylor’s four-course testimonial dinner will be held at The De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel on Friday, March 12.

Tickets cost £75 each or £700 for a table of ten.

For more information, contact Clare Britten on 07703459734 or email clare.britten@btinternet.com