Graham Ford will reflect on "five fantastic years" when he bids farewell to Kent later this year.

Speculation about the 48-year-old South African’s future as Director of Cricket ended last week when Kent confirmed his departure at the end of the season.

Ford, who joined the county in 2005, may not be lost to the county completely, though, and could continue to act in a consultancy capacity.

He revealed his decision to leave was made sometime ago.

He said: "I informed Chairman of Cricket Graham Johnson when I came back earlier this year that I wouldn’t be returning.

"While it’s only just been made public, it’s not fresh to me and I have had a lot of time to think about it."

Looking back, Ford’s biggest satisfaction stems from seeing the county re-invent themselves as a force in Twenty20 cricket as he looks forward to a third successive appearance at finals days

He added: "When I came here we couldn’t win a game. I remember watching the finals on TV, thinking it was never going to happen to us and we were miles away. To win it again would be enough for me."

Ford resume his involvement with South African side Dolphins this winter, as well as having the chance of spending more time with his family, wife Liz and teenage sons Greg (16) and 14 year-old Matthew.

He added: "It’s always been tough being away from home so much, charging off in different directions, with my involvement in South African cricket and then with Kent.

"They are my club and I will take away some fantastic memories, working with some great people, and a group of players whose attitude has helped them develop into high quality cricketers."