SOMERSET great Marcus Trescothick was on hand this afternoon (February 4) to officially open the pavilion in his name at the Cooper Associates County Ground.

The former left-handed batsmen who played 391 First Class matches for Somerset cut the ribbon to signify the official opening of the Marcus Trescothick Pavilion.

Originally named the Somerset Pavilion when it was complete in 2015, the stand was renamed shortly after Trescothick's retirement.

The official ceremony to open it as its new name was scheduled in 2019, but due to Covid restrictions it had to wait until this week.

Trescothick told the County Gazette that he is still trying to let it all sink in.

"It is all very strange if I am honest, but I am truly grateful.

"It was weird coming out to play here in front of the Trescothick Pavilion, but now that I can come here and enjoy the cricket as a supporter it has really hit me how special this is."

Somerset CCC chief executive officer Gordon Hollins said at the opening: "The word legend is thrown around too frequently at sports clubs around the world but there is no doubt that Marcus is a Somerset cricket legend.

On the side of the stand is a photo of Marcus and within it are the names of all Somerset CCC members who donated their membership fees to the Club throughout Covid.

"I have to thank each and everyone of you for donating your fees to us in a difficult time, it truly helped the Club navigate through that tricky period and we will not forget your generosity," Hollins said to the 80-strong crowd of members in attendance.

One thing all Somerset County Cricket Club fans share are memories of great moments inside the ground at Taunton, and Marcus hopes many more can be made in the newly named pavilion.

"This is a great place, Somerset has been my home my whole life and the memories I have made inside this ground are endless, as I am sure is the case for our fans.

"I hope that many more will be made from the pavilion and I cannot wait to see it packed in the coming season."