WILL McCARTHY will take over the captaincy of Cirencester's 1st XV from long-serving Alex Hammond who has led the side with great dignity and success.

Second/back row Will has played for Cirencester since his junior days and is a very well respected player among his squad peers.

Director of rugby Andy Deacon said: “I am pleased to have Will as captain and to lead the team.

“He will bring a steely determination and help drive the club in the right direction.

“Now we have a new coaching team in place, I am delighted at the significant increase in numbers at training, along with our newly-refurbished facilities, growing membership, and new corporate sponsors.

“Will has a fantastic infrastructure to support him on and off the pitch as do all the senior teams within the club.”