Alec Stewart has performed many roles for Surrey on the pitch, including captain, opening batsman and wicketkeeper, and now he has taken on a different challenge as the club's director of new business.

Paul Sheldon, Surrey's chief executive, said: "We have asked Alec to help us in a number of different areas - all of which will use his great skills and reputation to attract new supporters."

Stewart retired from both international and domestic cricket at the end of last season, bowing out on a high after England's series-levelling win against South Africa at The Oval.

"I am delighted to be able to continue my long association with Surrey County Cricket Club," Stewart said. "I hope that I can help raise the profile of the club and support it's excellent work in the local community. I am very much looking forward to this new exciting challenge."

Surrey did not offer Stewart, 40, a renewed contract for 2004 due to financial reasons, but Stewart declined to carry on playing for another county, even though many would have been interested in signing him.

Sheldon added: "He will be concentrating particularly on the immense opportunities brought about by our redevelopment project."