Paul Downton is to retire as Kent’s director of cricket at the end of the season.

Downton, who turned 66 in April, advised the board during the winter 2023 would be his last year in the post.

He initially was appointed to the role in January 2018 after the former England wicketkeeper played for Kent in the 1970s.

In that time, Kent Spitfires lost to Hampshire in the 2018 Royal London One-Day Cup Final before they won the T20 Blast in 2021 and then claimed the Royal London One-Day Cup last year.

Chairman Simon Philip said: “It was a coup for the club when we persuaded Paul to return to the game in 2018 as our director of cricket.

“He has taken us on a journey that has delighted everyone connected with the club and seen our players thrive and gain success that was beyond anything we imagined when he was appointed.

“Promotion and a Lord’s Final in the first year, maintaining our Division 1 status and the two trophy-winning years of 2021 and 2022 are a testimony to Paul’s experience, interpersonal skills, good sense and integrity.

“However, it has not just been about winning cricket matches and trophies. Paul has built a culture that has led to players developing, gaining national selection, and wanting to join the club from elsewhere.

“I also know that our coaching team has greatly appreciated his input into their careers and the daily support that he has provided.

“From my perspective, it has simply been a joy to interact with Paul throughout the last six years and I will really miss his wisdom and wise counsel.

“There will be plenty of time for us all to show our appreciation for everything Paul has done for the club, and we look forward to welcoming him back to Canterbury in years to come, free of responsibility of what is going on within the boundary rope!”

Downton had previously been England managing director ahead of his Kent return, and revealed he only wanted to be in the role for three years.

“I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to return to the club where I started my professional cricket career back in 1976,” he said.

“I have enjoyed working with a lot of good people, both on and off the field and engaging with members and supporters.

“In 2018, we set out on a journey to raise standards and compete to the best of our ability.

“Gaining promotion to Division 1 of the County Championship that year was a significant step forward for the club. Winning the Vitality Blast and the One-Day Cup is testament to how far the players, coaches and support staff have come.

“I initially took on the role for three years and have stayed for six! I have hugely enjoyed the challenges and the ups and downs of county cricket, and it has been a pleasure to witness the group’s successes.

“We have a good mix of senior players and young talent, which offers an exciting glimpse of the future.

“I look forward to watching our talented squad achieve all their cricketing ambitions while representing this great club.”

Experienced Kent batting all-rounder Joe Denly reacted to the news, writing on Instagram: “Been a pleasure working with Paul. All the best.”

Captain Sam Billings said on Twitter: “Not many know how much work Paul does behind the scenes!

“[I’m] incredibly thankful for everything he’s done at the club and, on a personal note, the support and advice he’s given to me.

“A great man! Enjoy a well-earned retirement.”

Former Gillingham FC chief operating officer Paul Fisher added: “Job well done, happy retirement, Paul.”

Farnborough-born Downton began his career at Kent, winning his cap in 1979, but the return of Alan Knott persuaded him to move to Middlesex.

He played for Kent as a wicketkeeper between 1977 and 1979, and is Kent men’s Cap number 158.

Downton was part of Kent’s 1978 County Championship and Benson & Hedges Cup double-winning team.

He joined Middlesex in 1980 which is where he spent the majority of his county career, and regularly stood in as captain when Mike Brearley was away with England. He was involved in more than 1,000 dismissals in professional cricket - 971 catches and 153 stumpings.

Downton played in 30 Test matches and 28 One-Day Internationals for England.