David's is finalised.

Club secretary Stuart Crockwell confirmed the signing with pleasure this week, stating that it is a move in the right direction for Steede and the future of cricket in St. David's.

Steede was rumoured to be moving on after a tumultuous first season as skipper of Devonshire Rec., with St. David's and Cup Match club Somerset the likely options.

The Royal Gazette revealed last month that St. David's were the front-runners but Steede would not confirm the move while concentrating on Bermuda's ICC Trophy commitment.

But this week, the 25-year-old signed on the dotted line to become player/coach and it is believed that he beat out at least two other applicants for the position.

"Everyone in St. David's is very delighted to have him,'' said Crockwell.

"The senior players, like Allen Richardson, Dale Fox, and even James Pace are all in favour.

"Albert Steede has been a blessing for years gone by in county cup and it is nice to have him full time.'' Steede has already drafted a programme for the 1994 season, which St. David's hope will see them regain the Eastern Counties Cup from Bailey's Bay as well as become a force in league play.

But it was that something extra Steede has to offer that swung the pendulum in his favour when the St. David's hierarchy made the final choice.

"The executive gave us the go-ahead to approach him and others,'' said Crockwell of the search by himself and cricket chairman Delby Borden to give the programme a shot in the arm.

"He had to come to us with a programme for 1994. His plan was sort of what the club was looking for. He is going to be working with the youth coaches, George Cannonier and Herbie Bascome, which should help us for years to come in terms of getting new faces in the team.

"What we place emphasis on is the youth and education and he will be able to tutor youngsters as well as help them in the development of their cricket.'' Crockwell would not reveal the financial arrangements of the deal, nor would he say who Steede beat out for the position.

Steede could not be reached for comment yesterday.

ALBERT STEEDE -- Tutoring skills figured in St. David's decision to hire him as player/coach.