Matt Walker is an experienced campaigner in county cricket

Matt Walker has joined Essex on a two-year contract starting from 2009.

The left-handed batsman, 34, says he is relishing a new challenge after Kent released him from his contract.

Walker, who made his Championship debut in 1994, enjoyed a long and illustrious career with Kent, scoring over 15,000 runs for the county.

He said: "I certainly have no intention of winding down my career just yet as I feel I still have plenty to offer. Now I want to show Essex what I can do."

The veteran middle-order star, who has struggled for regular starts during the summer, added: "I already know a fair bit about Essex and some of the players here and have a lot of respect for what they have achieved this season.

"There is a huge potential at the club and I hope my experience can help the young batsmen out.

"I've scored runs consistently and been a steady force in the middle order for some time so I hope to continue that on during my time with Essex."