Robin Smith has thanked Hampshire and the county's supporters for his bumper testimonial cheque.

Former Hampshire captain Smith, whose 1996 benefit raised £202,000 was awarded a cheque for £239,000 by Hampshire Cricket president Colin Ingleby Mackenzie at the county's annual general meeting.

Smith, who has just returned from a tour of the West Indies, said: "I'm absolutely delighted, it far exceeded all my expectations and I'm very grateful for the all support.

"I'd like to thank everyone who supported me."

Smith will be taking up an ambassadorial role with Hampshire this season, the county's first without their former captain for 23 years.

Hampshire are expected to re-name the Long Room the Robin Smith Suite later this month in his honour.

Smith played for Romsey Veterans at rugby union earlier this year, but was injured in his first match and hasn't played since!

This year there is no benefit or testimonial for a Hampshire player.

Instead the Howzat Appeal has been launched by the Hampshire County Cricket Youth Trust which Smith has long been a supporter of.

Smith is also a vice president of the appeal, which has its next event on April 23rd, a dinner at Basingstoke's Apollo Hotel.

For more details ring 02380471176 or log on to www.howzatappeal.org