Steve Rhodes, Worcestershire’s director of cricket, said: “It is no secret we need to improve our seam bowling resources and I believe that Gareth will really strengthen our team in that department and give us the depth we need. He is hungry for success.”

Andrew played for England Under-19 in 2003, when he also made his first-class debut. But he failed to kick on in the first-class arena – he hasn’t played any matches since 2005 - although he played a prominent role in Somerset's Twenty20 Cup winning campaign in 2005. He has only played nine first-class games since his debut in 2003: three in 2003, one in 2004 and five in 2005.

Andrew said: "I'm thrilled to have signed for Worcestershire and am already looking forward to joining the squad in 2008. I have come up through the Somerset youth system and I am thankful for all the help I have received.”