YORKSHIRE members will vote in Next chairman and former chief executive David Jones as the club's new president at the annual meeting at Headingley on March 27.

In nominating Jones for the presidency, Yorkshire's Management Board have opted for a figurehead from the world of business rather than a former star player in the Fred Trueman, Brian Close or Geoff Boycott mould.

Jones, who can hold the post for up to two years under the club's new rules, takes over from Robin Smith, who will remain Board chairman.

"David Jones will make a superb president because he has been unstintingly generous in his support of Yorkshire over many years and his ambitions for the club mirror those of the Board," said Smith.

"His leadership as president at a time when the club is about to increase significantly the size of its business, and then to refinance, will be particularly valuable."

Jones, who was born in Worcestershire and lives in Ilkley, started out with Next when it was a traditional clothing manufacturer and retailer and he has helped it grow into one of the leading fashion names in the UK high street.

He has had a life-long passion for cricket and is a keen supporter of Yorkshire.

Next is a cricket clothing supplier to Yorkshire and has been a major sponsor of the club over many years.

A certified accountant and chartered company secretary, Jones was awarded the CBE for his services to retailing and the community. He is closely involved in charitable work for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, the Parkinson's Disease Society and the Healing Foundation.

Smith stands down after four years as president during which time he has steered the club through a financial crisis and helped to change its constitution in order to allow the "Gang of Four" to take over from the general committee, which was dissolved.

Headingley is currently undergoing a complete redevelopment and plans for Yorkshire to buy the cricket complex from Leeds Cricket, Football, and Athletic Company are at an advanced stage with a further positive announcement expected at the annual meeting.

Updated: 11:01 Thursday, February 26, 2004