CRICKET fans at Worcestershire’s New Road ground will enjoy a much better view of the Cathedral this summer, according to chairman Stephen Taylor.

Taylor, who took up his new role this week, says the height of the road outside the ground will be raised at some stage in the future.

“We can now see more of the Cathedral,” Taylor told members at the club’s annual meeting.

“For a long time the trees have been growing bigger and getting greener and we have been seeing less of the Cathedral.

“But thanks to the county council there are less trees and we can see more of the Cathedral.

“I think that is important for this ground — not just for the cricket and the views but commercially. We want to sell weddings and functions and this is the lovely view we need to keep for the future.”

Taylor also explained developments to the road outside the ground will be made in the future.

“The council have approached us and they are going to raise the height of New Road,” he revealed.

“We will be pretty much guaranteed 99% dry access to all facilities. That’s going to be quite a catalyst to change and the opportunity for other developments to happen.”

Taylor is looking forward to the club’s 150th season, which includes a four-day tour match against New Zealand, starting on May 14, and hosting a women’s Ashes one-day international between England and Australia on July 26.

He says the main on-field focus will be Worcestershire’s return to Division One of the LV= County Championship, starting against Yorkshire at New Road on April 12.

“We are realists — we know it will be a difficult season,” he said.

“We have a great bunch of players who will put 150 per cent into the game but we have just got promoted. When it gets tough that’s when sides like Worcestershire and the fans support their team.

“There will be some tough days when Daryl Mitchell and his gang are out there and they are going to want to know that the supporters are being positive and supportive.”