LANCASHIRE today started the search for a new coach after Bob Simpson announced he would quit the club at the end of the season.

Simpson ended speculation about his future by taking matters into his own hands before last night's committee meeting and today's Roses Match at Old Trafford.

"It's very disappointing, but I've made the decision, not anybody else," said the 65-year-old, who joined Lancashire on a two-year contract at the start of last season.

"My contract finishes at the end of the season and that's it, I will be going."

It is the second time in as many years that an Australian coach has decided to leave Lancashire, after Dav Whatmore left midway through the 1999 season to return to Sri Lanka.

And that may persuade the committee, led by chairman Jack Simmons, that it is time to look closer to home.

David Lloyd, who made a huge impact as Lancashire coach before moving on to England and now Sky, would be one obvious candidate if he is prepared to return from the media - although he resigned his club membership earlier this year.

Mike Watkinson, who formed a superb partnership with Lloyd and is now the second team captain, could be another.

And other Lancastrians such as John Abrahams, who was recently appointed to assist Rod Marsh at the new England cricket academy, could be in the frame.

But for the moment Simpson and his players must concentrate on holding up Yorkshire's seemingly irresistible charge for their first Championship since 1968, followed by Sunday's C&G semi final in Leicester.

"It would be nice to go out with a trip to Lord's," said Simpson, who will have no shortage of job offers with India and Zimbabwe already expressing an interest.

"I want to finish the season and try to help the team do as much as possible in the time left. I'm a professional."

Simpson's departure does not come as a surprise, as his relationship with Simmons has deteriorated over the last few months.

But it will hit some of the players, who have praised the technical help he has given them.

Others, though, such as the out of favour Graham Lloyd and Ian Austin, may see it as the chance to relaunch their Lancashire careers.