Freddie Flintoff becomes Lancashire's first official ambassador

Former international cricketer Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff, has become Lancashire's first official ambassador, working with Marketing Lancashire to help raise the profile of his home county.

Andrew was born in Preston, played more than 15 seasons for Lancashire, and captained England before retiring in 2010.

He will support a small number of key events organised by Marketing Lancashire, that will showcase the county in the UK and overseas.

He said: “I’m a proud Lancashire lad and feel honoured to have been invited to become the first official Lancashire Ambassador.

“One of the best feelings in the world is representing your county and country, whether that’s in the field of sport or in business. I’m looking forward to working alongside fellow Lancastrians to help generate further interest and investment in the county, towards a more prosperous and secure future for Lancashire.”

Rachel McQueen, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: “One of our biggest strengths, undeniably, is our people; renowned for their entrepreneurship, skill and creativity, good humour and hospitality. Our aim with the Lancashire ambassadors is to harness those powerful attributes, individual experiences and influence to help celebrate and share our pride in this place.

“Freddie is the first of our official Lancashire ambassadors and we’re genuinely thrilled to have him ‘batting’ for his county once again.”

Geoff Driver, leader of Lancashire County Council, added: “Freddie’s passion for his home city and county is immense, and he has arguably been acting as an ambassador for Lancashire for many years. "I am delighted that he has agreed to work more closely with us and that we could make the introduction to Marketing Lancashire for him to become an official ambassador for Lancashire. I know he will be great in helping to raise the profile of our county even further.”