Former umpire and first-class cricketer Steve Malone has been appointed as the Bradford Premier League’s new disciplinary officer.

The 70-year-old is a well-known figure around the league and takes up the post with immediate effect.

Malone, who was a fast bowler with Essex and Hampshire before turning to umpiring, hung up his white coat at the end of last season.

He said: “I am looking forward to this new challenge and hope that the experience I have gained from playing and umpiring will be helpful in the role.

“It is important to encourage positive behaviour from players, but I know there are times when standards drop, which is when a robust and fair disciplinary procedure is needed.”

Malone will work closely with disciplinary chairman Nasa Hussain and will be assisted initially by league chairman Bill Holmes.

Holmes stepped in as disciplinary officer on an interim basis last year after the resignation of Steve Lee.