England Under-19 international batsman Dan Redfern has signed a two-year professional contract with Derbyshire.

The contract, which begins next year, is the first full-time deal of the 18-year-old batsmen's career.

Redfern, who made his first team debut in 2006 at the age of 16, has since made five first-class and eight limited overs appearances for the county.

"Dan is an exceptionally talented young cricketer so we are delighted," said head of cricket John Morris.

"Credit goes to Karl Krikken for nurturing his talent through the Academy and it is great for Derbyshire that we have a player who is consistently involved in the England Under 19's set-up."

Derbyshire have shown a lot of faith in me and I am aiming to repay that in runs and wickets Ian Redfern

A product of Leycett Cricket Club in Shropshire, left-hander Redfern has played 11 youth one-day internationals for England.

Redfern's most recent first-class performance was his best as the teenager scored 43 and 51 against a Northamptonshire attack containing South Africa internationals Lance Klusener and Nicky Boje.

Redfern, who also bowls right-arm off-breaks, said: "I have enjoyed the tasters of first team cricket that I have been given so far and I am immensely looking forward to competing for a more regular place as a full-time professional cricketer.

"Derbyshire have shown a lot of faith in me and I am now aiming to repay that in runs and wickets."