GARY KEEDY has ended his 18-year affiliation with Lancashire after moving to Surrey to ‘fulfil’ his ambitions.

The left-arm spinner, who lives in Pleasington, has agreed a two-year deal with Surrey after 400 appearances for the Red Rose county.

Arriving at Old Trafford in 1995, the 37-year-old has claimed over 800 wickets in all competitions for Lancashire and was awarded a benefit in 2009. He was capped by the county in 2000.

Keedy said: “I have had a fantastic eighteen seasons at Lancashire and would like to thank all the players, staff and members there for everything they have done for me.

“Winning the County Championship in 2011 was an incredible moment for both the club and myself and one that will stay with me forever. Working with Simon Kerrigan and Steve Parry over the last few years has been very rewarding and I feel they can go forward and play a big role for Lancashire in the future.

“However, I have reached the time in my career when I need to move on in order to fulfil my ambitions and I am very excited to be joining Surrey at this time. They are a great club with a long history and an exciting future and I am really looking to playing my part over the next few seasons.”

Lancashire CCC Cricket director Mike Watkinson added: “Gary has been a fantastic servant to Lancashire County Cricket Club over many seasons, both on and off the field.

“At Lancashire we have up and coming spinners Simon Kerrigan, Stephen Parry and Arron Lilley all looking to stake a claim and with Gary being at the latter end of his playing career he wants the opportunity of playing as much cricket as possible.

“Gary asked permission to look at other options and he goes with our best wishes. We would like to thank him for his outstanding service to the club and we wish him well.”

Surrey team director Chris Adams said he was delighted to sign Keedy.