IN ADDITION to retaining former Gloucester prop Andy Deacon as Director of Rugby for a fourth year, Cirencester Rugby have appointed Luke Stratford to coach the forwards and Harry Cochrane as backs coach.

Andy Deacon said: “They play and coach at a great standard. It’s a pleasure having these guys on the team.”

“Harry and Luke have slotted in brilliantly and the proof has been a week on week impressive turnout; 40+ players, new and old, running out on the Paddock.

Backs coach Harry Cochrane has been playing rugby since the age of six in Jersey and moved to Hartpury five years ago, now playing at Championship level.

“Coaching is the next step in my career and having the opportunity at Cirencester is exciting. I’ve heard great things about the club,” said Harry.

Also from Jersey RFC, forwards coach, Luke Stratford has been playing at Hartpury since 2014 and sees the Cirencester appointment as a way to progress his playing and coaching skills.

“The prospect of coaching the upcoming young guys is a massive attraction for me so I can pass on some of my knowledge, watch them progress and make that step up at a senior level.”