KENT'S director of cricket Graham Ford has agreed terms on a new deal to keep him with the county until the end of the 2008 championship campaign.

The former coach to the South Africa Test side has enjoyed two years at St Lawrence laying the foundations for what he believes will be a vital two years to follow.

The 45-year-old from Natal said: "I am very pleased to be staying with the club as there is still a lot to do in terms of adding strength to our first team, building depth in our back-up squad and bringing through some of our outstanding academy talent.

"There are a lot of talented cricketers in Kent and I am quite sure that, with the help and guidance of our coaching team, we can ensure Kent compete successfully in all competitions."

Kent's chairman of cricket, Graham Johnson, said: "During his time with us Graham has had a significant impact on our cricket development and has worked particularly well with our captain Rob Key.

"He is genuinely excited by the potential of the club both on and off the field."