A new deal has been struck between Yorkshire and Scarborough CC, which ensures that first-class cricket will remain at North Marine Road until at least 2010.

Scarborough members were also told at their annual meeting that even closer ties will be forged over the next few years.

The present agreement runs out this year, but a new five-year plan will come into operation, which virtually ensures that Yorkshire will continue playing two Championship matches and two totesport League games at the resort each year.

The Scarborough club guarantee Yorkshire £27,500 a year for their games on the ground and any additional money at an agreed figure above that sum is evenly split.

In addition, Yorkshire, through their catering manager Graham Hallam, will be responsible for pavilion catering during county matches and certain other games at North Marine Road.

Plans are also at an advanced stage to play a friendly Twenty20 match between Yorkshire and Durham on Monday, August 22, the second day of the 119th festival.

Scarborough have spent more than £500,000 over the past five years on ground improvements, the latest being the levelling of the outfield during the winter months.

Bill Mustoe, the club's chairman, said: "I think the new deal is absolutely marvellous for both Scarborough and Yorkshire.

"It has long been recognised that Scarborough is one of those venues which Yorkshire have done very well at, both financially and playing wise over a long number of years, and a lot of the county's supporters love to come here.

"It is a great ground to watch cricket on because spectators are close to the action and it is very pleasing that Yorkshire have now given their longest commitment to Scarborough.

"Relations have always been good but we are now moving into a new era in which it is recognised that we both depend upon each other more than ever before.

"I am particularly looking forward to what should be one of the most exciting festivals in recent years. There has already been a lot of interest generated in the festival curtain-raiser between an Old England XI and a Lashings XI on Sunday, August 21, and with the Twenty-20 game the week is bound to get off to a great start."