Paul Horton and Oliver Newby, two of Lancashireâ..s most promising young players, have signed contract extensions to keep them at Old Trafford until 2009.

The club acted swiftly to retain Horton, who has scored three Championship centuries this season, after Warwickshire showed strong interest in wanting to sign him.

Newby, a tall quick bowler, has had limited opportunities but Lancashire expect him to develop into a vital part of their attack when the aging members of the team â.. Glen Chapple and Dominic Cork â.. eventually step aside.