Thornbury RFC will have a new coaching team when rugby resumes next season.

Following the departure of Tom Luke to Bristol Bears Women, Wayne Thompson takes over as head coach and will be assisted by Gareth Delve and Gareth Knox.

Whilst former Bristol prop Thompson, once a Thornbury junior player, moves up from forwards coach, Delve and Knox are new to the club.

Delve, the former Bath and Gloucester No.8 who won eleven caps for Wales, was previously Bristol Bears team manager, whilst fellow Welshman Knox also played for Bath and is now a lecturer at Hartpury College.

Thompson said. “Fresh faces are a good thing and with the experience these guys have we will all benefit together. New eyes see new things and this will be a great experience for the players.”

Club chairman Geoff Sprackman added: “As a club we invest in the enjoyment and experience of our players. Appointing this top-quality coaching team is part of the way ahead and in conjunction with our new changing rooms, medical facilities and gym we look forward to the new season with great excitement.”

Thornbury begin their league campaign at home to Chew Valley in September.