GLOUCESTER'S record-breaking prop Nick Wood has left the club after 15 years at Kingsholm, writes Andrew Baldock.

Swindon-born Wood, together with backs Rob Cook and Steph Reynolds, will not be part of Gloucester's squad next season following completion of their playing contracts, the Aviva Premiership club confirmed.

Former England Saxons forward Wood, 33, made a club record 278 first team appearances and was the first Gloucester player to feature on 200 occasions in the Premiership.

"I've had an amazing time at this wonderful club," Wood told Gloucester's official website.

"I arrived here as an 18-year-old boy straight from school, and I leave as the man I am today through the friendship and guidance of the players and coaches I've been fortunate enough to work with.

"Beyond a certain point, I always saw myself finishing my career at Gloucester.

"However, that's not to be, and such is the nature of professional sport. I look forward to seeing the team achieve their potential in the coming season.

"On a personal note, I am excited to take on the next challenge in my rugby career."

And Gloucester rugby director David Humphreys added: "Nick has been an outstanding ambassador for Gloucester Rugby, both on and off the pitch, over the past 15 years.

"He should be very proud of what he has achieved at this club, and his record of 278 competitive appearances for Gloucester is testament to his talent and qualities as a rugby player, but also his fitness and durability.

Wood was Supporters’ Player of the Season in the 2011-12 season as well as being nominated for Premiership Player of the Season in the same year.

He made five appearances for England Saxons but never earned a full England cap though he came close to selection on a number of occasions.

Five new signings have switched to Gloucester for the 2016/17 season: Josh Hohneck (Highlanders); Motu Matu'u (Hurricanes); Tom Denton (Leinster); Andrew Symons (Worcester Warriors) and Matt Scott (Edinburgh).

Lewis Ludlow, Dan Thomas and former Stow RFC player Ollie Thorley have joined the senior squad from the Academy.

Confirmed as departures to other clubs are lock Elliott Stooke (Bath) and back Steve McColl (Yorkshire Carnegie), while young forwards Luke Cole and Tom Hicks have moved to Greene King IPA Championship outfit Rotherham Titans.