DAVE Houghton and Jason Kerr have been appointed by Somerset CCC as their new specialist batting and bowling coaches.

The appointments are part of the re-structuring programme that is being implemented at the club following an internal review.

Both Houghton and Kerr will work closely with Director of Cricket Dave Nosworthy who will now assume full responsibility for the First XI environment and its performance.

Houghton has vast experience both as a player, captain and coach, having played 22 Test matches for Zimbabwe, before going on to coach Worcestershire and then taking charge of the Zimbabwe national side.

Since then he has enjoyed two spells at Derbyshire, the latter from 2011 as batting coach.

Houghton said: “The opportunity to work at a club like Somerset, who have the real passion and desire to achieve – comes round just once in a lifetime and I can’t wait to get started.

“I look forward to contributing in any way I can to the continued success of this club and working with quality people and players.”

Kerr is no stranger to Somerset having played for the county between 1993 and 2001 while for a number of seasons now he has combined his post as Director of the Academy with Second XI coach with considerable success.

Kerr said: “I’m incredibly excited about my new role at Somerset and to have the opportunity to be working with such a talented group of players.

“I look forward to helping the team towards achieving success – and as such see it as a great challenge.”

Nosworthy said: “We are really excited to have someone of Dave Houghton’s stature and credibility on board and know that he will have a lot to offer us going forward.

“The appointment of Jason Kerr from within our own structures is also really exciting as he has the respect of the players and will bring his vast knowledge and expertise into the First XI environment.

“I look forward to working closely with Dave and Jason and together taking this team forward.”

As part of the restructuring Andy Hurry will be appointed as Director of High Performance, a post which will oversee the entire pathway of talented cricketers through and into the First XI.

It will include managing, coaching, and developing emerging talent in the Academy and 2nd XI as well as strengthening relationships with Minor Counties, Universities, clubs, and schools.

Hurry and Nosworthy will continue to work closely together to structure and guide the club towards its objectives and goals.

Meanwhile Somerset launched their 2014 membership earlier this week and the news is that prices have been frozen, with Championship membership costing £139 while Platinum membership costs £209.

Full details are available from www.somersetcountycc.co.uk