The departure of Anderson, Lancashire’s all-time leading wicket-taker and one of the county’s greatest ever players, dominated discussions at a members’ meeting attended by around 200 supporters.

Many voiced frustration, not only at the decision to release the 44-year-old, but also at the lack of an opportunity for fans to properly thank him for more than two decades of service.

New chief executive Richard Kenyon and incoming director of cricket Paul Farbrace agreed to investigate ways of marking Anderson’s contribution to the club.

Farbrace, who joined the meeting remotely while on holiday, took personal responsibility for the controversial decision and faced sustained questioning from members.

He repeated his view Lancashire must build a squad capable of winning the County Championship within three to four years and said he does not believe Anderson will play a significant role in that long-term plan.

The explanation did little to quell concerns from some supporters, who pointed out that Anderson remained one of Lancashire’s standout performers last season.

The former England captain took 50 County Championship wickets and was named Lancashire’s Championship Player of the Year despite the club enduring a disappointing campaign which ended with a second-bottom finish in Division Two.

Farbrace acknowledged the strength of feeling, apologising if supporters or Anderson felt the process had been disrespectful or unnecessarily harsh, while maintaining the decision had been taken in what he believes are the club’s long-term interests.

The forum was the first major opportunity for members to hear directly from Kenyon, who only recently took over as chief executive.

He admitted Lancashire had “lost its way” in certain areas and said recent performances had fallen well short of expectations for a club with such resources and facilities.

Farbrace did pay tribute to fast bowler Anderson and said: “Jimmy is without doubt the greatest bowler Lancashire and England have produced.

“He has been a fantastic competitor throughout his career, with exceptional skill and an unwavering commitment to setting the highest standards in every dressing room he has been part of.”