James Foster's first century of the season ensured maximum batting points for Essex, who closed day one at 404-6.

Wicket-keeper Foster, 27, who played the last of his seven Tests in December 2002, reached 100 with a straight six off left-arm spinner Rob Ferley.

He shared an unbroken 180 with Andy Bichel, a county record for the seventh wicket against Notts.

Ravi Bopara also hit Ferley for six and added six fours in an attractive 59 before holing out to deep mid-on.

Foster completed his half century from 97 balls and required a further 51 to move into three figures.

Veteran Australian Bichel moved within nine of his second century of the campaign with some lusty hitting, helping to erase a record set by Trevor Bailey and Ray Smith in 1949.