Experienced seam bowler Simon Cook has extended his Kent contract for a further two seasons.

The 33-year-old is now contracted to stay at St Lawrence until the end of the 2011 season.

Team director Paul Farbrace said securing the services of an experienced player like Cook was great news for the club.

“He is a quality bowler and is fast becoming Kent’s mister reliable," said Farbrace. “We are all very pleased that he has extended his stay."

The club have also signed young fast bowler Ashley Shaw on a two-year professional contract.

The 18-year-old left-arm bowler has played age group cricket for Cheshire and impressed in a recent trial at the St Lawrence Ground.

Farbrace, who described Shaw as an exciting prospect, said he had a good work ethic and wanted to improve as a cricketer.

“He did well in a recent trial and we are keen to work with him and hopefully enhance his game,” he added