Sussex have promoted Academy batsman Michael Thornley to the professional staff.

The 19-year-old from Horsham, who made his second team debut in 2005, has signed a one-year contract.

It means the county champions will again operate with 18 contracted players next season, the smallest professional staff in the country.

Thornley, who plays in the Sussex League for his home town club and is a former Brighton College pupil, has been working on his game and fitness during the winter and holding down a job at Gatwick Airport but he can't wait to concentrate entirely on cricket.

He said: "I have worked really hard this winter and it has paid off - it's a dream come true.

"It's been a serious goal of mine for the last three years and I can't wait to really get stuck in, although I realise I still have a lot of work to do."

Coach Mark Robinson said: "Michael was highly recommended by second team coach Mark Davis and Academy Director Keith Greenfield.

"But I wanted to see how he operated around the pros for the last few months. We don't sign kids because running a small squad means everyone might have to play - it's tough to get into our set-up, you have to have character as well as ability.

"But he fully deserves his chance. He's a talented cricketer who has shown he is prepared to work hard and we look forward to him progressing this season."