SWINDON’S Jon Lewis is to leave Gloucestershire at the end of this season after 16 year with the Bristol-based side.

Lewis, who will be 36 next month, is to join Surrey on a two-year contract.

He his first-class debut back in 1995, since going on to make 222 first class appearances plus 212 in List A cricket and 56 in the Twenty20 format.

The former Churchfields School pupil played in one Test Match for England against Sri Lanka in 2006 and has also appeared in 13 one-day internationals and two T20 internationals.

With Gloucestershire, Lewis was a consistent performer, his career-best bowling figures of 8-95 being achieved against Zimbabwe at Gloucester in 2000.

He said: “I have had some wonderful times with Gloucestershire, been privileged to captain the club, play with many fantastic players and enjoy terrific backing from the supporters over 17 seasons, which have brought many highlights.

“I am very grateful for all the opportunities the club have given me.

“Now I am looking forward to an exciting new challenge with a team I feel is ready to step up to the next level.

“Surrey have some hugely promising players and I hope I can add some experience to their squad and help their young bowlers progress.

“There is still a job to be done at Gloucestershire over the remainder of this season.

“I have spoken to my teammates and assured them that I remain totally committed to helping the club reach Division One of the Championship before I leave.”

Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson said: “Jon Lewis has been a terrific cricketer for our club and we are very grateful for all that he has done.