Richard Montgomerie has been awarded a benefit by Sussex for 2007 after sixteen years' service to first-class cricket.

Montgomerie made his debut for Northamptonshire in 1991 and was awarded his county cap in 1995. He then moved to Sussex in the winter of 1998 and was awarded his Sussex cap a year later

Montgomerie said he was delighted with the decision: "I feel very privileged to have been awarded a benefit by Sussex. I am extremely lucky to have played 16 years in professional cricket and particularly the last eight in this thriving Sussex side.

"I look forward to an enjoyable year where Sussex continue to be successful and where supporters will also be able to enjoy the events in my benefit calendar. "

Hugh Griffiths, the chief executive, added: "Richard's batting has been a major influence as a first XI player over the seasons since he joined us in 1999. He has contributed generally to the improvements on the field of play in that time, and specifically to our Championship success in 2003. Off the field he has won many friends amongst members, sponsors, supporters, and staff, and I know they will all join me in wishing him a successful 2007 benefit season."