Jon Lewis has stepped down as captain of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club after three years in charge of the side.

Lewis has made the decision after a difficult season in which he combined the job of captain with that of coach.

The 32-year-old will remain with the club and will be ready to spearhead the bowling attack under new director of cricket John Bracewell and a new captain.

"I have given my all to the cause and thoroughly enjoyed the challenge but feel the time is right for a fresh start." said Lewis.

" I look forward to focusing on improving my game so that I can play my best cricket for Gloucestershire.

"I have been extremely proud to have been captain of Gloucestershire over the past 3 seasons.

" I would like to thank the supporters for their commitment to me and the team."

With inspirational coach Bracewell returning to the club for the start of the 2009 season, Gloucestershire will be hoping for a much improved side.

The county failed to win a four-day game in the 2008 season, and struggled in their favoured suit of one day cricket, failing to make the later stages of either the Friends Provident Trophy or Twenty20 Cup.

Alex Gidman will be the immediate favourite to take on the top job, having deputised for Lewis on many occasions.

However with Gidman also badly struggling for form, Bracewell may look elsewhere, or even look to a new recruit.

Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson paid tribute to the work put in by Lewis over a difficult few years.

"We all wish to thank Jon Lewis for his efforts for the Club as Captain for the past 3 years." said Richardson.

"This year, in particular, he has taken on significantly more responsibility and we are extremely grateful to him.

"As an experienced senior player and international cricketer he still has a great deal to offer both on and off the field."