Stephen Moore was the first in the country to 1,000 runs this summer

Worcestershire opening batsman Stephen Moore has ended speculation about his future by signing a new three-year contract at New Road.

Several other counties had expressed an interest in signing Moore, 27, who has made more than 1,000 runs this season.

Moore told BBC Hereford and Worcester he always wanted to stay at New Road, but the interest was flattering.

"I've been humbled by the interest," he said. "But I love it at Worcester and I just want to get on and play now."

Moore, Johannesburg-born but of English parents, added: "I have an ambition to play for England and the club say they'll support me in those sorts of goals.

"The support I have received from my fianc�e, family, team mates, supporters and the club has been overwhelming.

It's testament to the club that he has chosen to pursue those aspirations with us when so many counties were after his signature. Steve Rhodes

" I am really pleased to continue my career with Worcestershire and I am looking forward to taking the field with the current squad of talented Worcestershire players and competing for trophies and championships in the future. "

"Stephen has really shown his true worth to the team this season," said director of cricket Steve Rhodes. "He is undoubtedly one the leading batsmen in the country.

"He and Daryl Mitchell are fast becoming one of the most reliable opening partnerships in the County Championship and I am pleased we will see this partnership develop over the next few years.

"I know that Stephen has aspirations to play for England and it is well known how committed we are to developing players for England. It's testament to the club that he has chosen to pursue those aspirations with us when so many counties were after his signature."

Worcestershire's next game is against Essex at Colchester in the County Championship on Wednesday (20 August).

There will be full ball by ball commentary on BBC Hereford and Worcester on 738 am and at bbc.co.uk/herefordandworcester