New Somerset captain Marcus Trescothick has signed a fresh three-year contract at Taunton, with an option for a further 12 months also in place.

The 33-year-old former England opening batsman has extended his stay until at least the end of the summer of 2012, with his ultimate aim to continue playing until past his 40th birthday.

He told the county's official website: "I am absolutely delighted to have signed a new contract with Somerset.

"My aim is to play for as long as I can, at least until I am 40 and beyond if I am fit enough.

"It's always good news to get a new contract and it is great that we managed to sort it out so quickly."

Director of cricket Brian Rose added: "We are all very pleased that Marcus has signed a new contract at the club and I think that this is a result of the development of the side and his appointment as captain.

"Hopefully this long-term contract at Somerset will mean that he will finish his playing days with the same county.

"In cricket there is a lot more movement of players between counties than there was in my playing days, so it is a great sign that our best player is pledging his future to the club where he started."