FORMER Essex batsman Billy Godleman has joined Division One newcomers Derbyshire on a two-year contract.

Godleman, who was released by Essex at the end of the season, has signed for the LV= County Championship Division Two winners.

The former England Under-19 batsman, who is now 23, joined Essex from Middlesex, but has never really fulfilled his early promise.

“My first-class career began very early with a century on debut at 17, but it has not progressed as I would have liked during the past couple of seasons,” Godleman told ecb.co.uk.

“However, I believe this opportunity with one of the most ambitious and progressive clubs in the game will provide the platform to re-establish my early credentials as a prospective England player.

“I am thrilled to be joining Derbyshire and very much looking forward to playing my part in helping the club become established as a force in English cricket.”

Godleman, who played club cricket for Wivenhoe in the Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship while on the staff at Chelmsford, added: “Karl Krikken’s passion for the county has been a major factor in my decision to commit to Derbyshire, so has our specialist batting coach Dave Houghton’s belief in my ability.

“If I can develop my game in all formats within Derbyshire’s committed learning environment, I believe my runs at the top of the order can provide the foundation to build more success for the team next season.”

Derbyshire head coach Krikken added: “Billy is a talented batsman who, at 23, has a great chance to develop at the club and fulfil his potential.

“He already has experience under his belt, yet he remains ambitious; his game is still developing, he is hungry for success and he still has plenty to prove - factors that combine to make Billy an exciting signing.”