Anderson is ranked the second best bowler in Test cricket

Lancashire have announced they will award England fast bowler James Anderson a benefit year in 2012.

The 29-year-old made his debut for Lancashire in 2002 and has since taken 209 first-class wickets for the county.

Anderson told the club's official website: "To be awarded a benefit by your county is an immense honour and I am naturally delighted.

"It is a privilege to represent Lancashire I am grateful that they have awarded me a benefit for 2012."

Anderson claimed 50 wickets in his first season and the following year became the youngest player to take a hat-trick for the Red Rose county.

Club chief executive Jim Cumbes told BBC Radio Lancashire: "He's been a terrific servant to the game of cricket. We know he's not played as much for Lancashire but that's because of his success for England."

Anderson has featured in 61 Tests for England, taking 231 wickets at an average of 30.65 - including 11 five-wicket innings and a 10-wicket haul against Pakistan last year.

"It was such a remarkable rise up the ladder for him. He came to us and in no time at all he'd burst onto the scene," added Cumbes.

"Before very long he was playing for England as well - which, of course, is the measure of a truly talented bowler."

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