Phil Weston finally hangs up his bat after a 17 year career in the game

Derbyshire opener Phil Weston has announced his retirement from first-class cricket to concentrate on a new career in finance.

The 34-year-old left-hander moved to Derby last year from Gloucestershire, where he spent four summers, following a 12-year spell with Worcestershire.

"It's been a very difficult decision to finish my career particularly after a disappointing season in 2007," he said.

Weston had a dismal time last season, scoring just 198 runs for Derbyshire.

It is not the way I would ideally like to have ended my time in the game Phil Weston

He has now accepted an offer to work for the National Australia Bank.

Weston has been working for them over the winter under a scheme run by the Professional Cricketers Association.

And, after being offered a permanent position, he has called time on a 17-year career.

Weston's Career Stats: Born Durham June 1973 Scored 12,789 first-class runs at 33.39 Scored 4,385 one-day runs at 25.64

"It is not the way I would ideally like to have ended my time in the game and with Derbyshire.

"As it is, I have been offered an excellent opportunity through the work of the PCA and I have to look at my long-term future."

Derbyshire Chief Executive Tom Sears said: "While we are naturally disappointed to lose a player of Phil's qualities and experience we can understand the decision he has made."