Taylor, who has also played first class cricket for Derbyshire, will coach seniors and juniors as well as playing for the first team.

The opening batsman has signed from fellow JCT 600 Bradford League side Undercliffe where he dominated the Division Two batting averages last season, scoring 840 runs in 14 innings at an average of 76.

Taylor's first class career has spanned nine seasons after making his Championship debut for Yorkshire in their title winning season of 2001.

Prior to that he represented England at U-17 and U-19 level having played for Yorkshire throughout the juniors.

He has three first class centuries to his name and was the first player in Derbyshire's history to score a century on one day and first class debut.

Taylor is "delighted" to be joining Lightcliffe.

He said: "The foundations are already in place for something special to happen in the near future.

"Lightcliffe CC has the best pitch in the Bradford League, a consistently successful junior section and, most importantly, a very close club spirit."

New first team captain Jonathan Wilson is understandably pleased with one of his first signings since taking over the reigns in September.

"This is not only a good signing for the first team it is great for the whole club," said Wilson,

"Chris will be helping me behind the scenes as well as providing coaching for senior players. He will also be providing coaching at junior level.

"He will be helping the younger end to achieve their potential and bringing through a greater number of players with first team potential."

Lightcliffe have also signed batsmen Rhys Jowett and Nick Ward as well as bowler Rick Tesseyman, who rejoins the club after a brief spell in the Halifax League with Southowram.

It is also reported that progress is being made with one or two other quality signings which the club hopes to announce in early 2010.

The club is busy seeking new sponsors for the 2010 campaign with club stalwart Roger Stead heading up an active sponsorship group.

Various packages are available to any organisations or individuals interested, ranging from match ball to kit sponsorship. Interested parties can call Roger Stead on 07790 009585.