Graham Johnson appointed vice-president

Former Kent all-rounder Graham Johnson has been appointed a vice president of the club after stepping down as chairman of cricket.

The former Kent all-rounder succeeded Mike Denness in the role in 2004 and also served as Club President in 2014.

Members paid tribute to Johnson’s unstinting service to Kent as a player and administrator.

The Beckenham-born batsman and off-spinner made his Kent debut in 1965 and represented the club for 21 seasons, scoring more than 18,000 runs and taking 664 wickets.

He was Man of the Match in Kent’s 1976 B&H Cup Final win against Worcestershire, one of eleven domestic trophies won during his career.

Following his retirement from the game, he has pursued a successful business career in banking, finance and recruitment.

Mr Johnson said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my spell as chairman of cricket at such an eventful time in the club’s history.

“I’ve relished the challenge of helping the club compete in challenging times and working with the captains and coaches to build a stronger squad.

“We’ve tried to bring more players through from our Academy and there’s now a nucleus of homegrown talent in place to take the club forward.”

The club appointed former Kent and England wicketkeeper Paul Downton in February 2018 as full-time Director of Cricket to oversee the professional cricket operation.

Chairman Simon Philip said: “Graham was a key player in the club’s success in the 1970s and his energy and knowledge has helped the club enormously in his role as Chairman of Cricket.

“His contribution has been outstanding, giving a huge amount of time voluntarily to a very demanding role. His business acumen combined with his passion for producing home grown players helped us to navigate a challenging period and leaves our playing squad in great shape.  The Club owes Graham a huge debt of gratitude for his long period of service and devotion to Kent Cricket.

“He was a great advocate of a full-time director of cricket and will continue to be available to support his former team-mate Paul Downton in that role.”

David Turner, founder member of the Kent Cricket Board, was also appointed a Vice President for more than 50 years of service of developing schools and youth cricket in the county.

Community cricket director Andy Griffiths said: “I am delighted that David has been appointed as vice president in recognition of more than 50 years work in school and youth cricket in the county.

“He has served on many committees and sub committees, been a trustee to several charities and has given so much of his time to the game in Kent.”