A ceremonial VIP opening of the new stand took place with a traditional red ribbon cutting by Sir Christopher Ondaatje OC CBE, chair of Somerset CCC, Andy Nash and chief executive of Somerset CCC, Guy Lavender.

The installation of Arena Seating's new, tiered seating system with improved 800mm legroom space enhances customer comfort and viewing experience.

The ability to extend the grandstand sideways or backwards means that the capacity of 800 can be increased for particular games, or concerts.

Bespoke glass handrails on either side of the two stands, along with the white seats, were designed to ensure the new look of the stand complements the existing architecture of adjacent pavilions.

The project builds on Arena Seating's existing relationship with Somerset CCC, going back to the provision of temporary seating for various matches and a sold out 23,000 crowd for an Elton John concert in June 2006.

Due to land protection regulations restricting the excavation of the ground, the two tiered stands were constructed on a raised solid foundation, levelled to correct a one metre drop in the ground adjacent to the existing Ondaatje Pavilion.