MATT Goode says he is “delighted and honoured” to become head coach of his boyhood club Banbury, writes JACK JOHNSON.

The experienced centre, who will continue to play, has been busy putting his squad through their paces over the last month.

Goode replaces James Kerr, who steps down after six seasons in charge, but the Welshman stays on as a coach at the South West 1 East club.

Banbury have enjoyed success in recent years, securing promotion to the sixth tier of English rugby in 2016 and retaining the Oxfordshire Cup in April.

Goode, who was also the Bulls’ backs coach last season, is looking forward to the challenge.

He said: “Having started my rugby career at Banbury aged six in 1990, I’m delighted and honoured to have been asked to lead the club’s coaching structure for the 2017/18 season.

“Following on from two very successful seasons is a hard act to follow.

“Bit it’s one that we are all looking forward to.

“The club’s ambition and focus is of the same thinking as mine.

“I am very excited to be working alongside all our coaches – not only at senior level – but also with our minis and juniors.”

Meanwhile, Ian Isham will serve another season as club captain and Joe Winpenny has been appointed as forwards player/coach.

Prop Pete Boulton has joined from Oxford Harlequins, No8 Rory Gratwohl signs on from Grove, and back George Grieve returns to Bulls after a spell with Moseley, before heading off to Australia in January to play in New South Wales.

Another addition is former Banbury colt Tommy Gray, who can play across the back-three, and has been with Chinnor in recent years.

Bulls drew 15-15 away to Leighton Buzzard in a pre-season friendly on Saturday.

l FORMER Oxford University and Chinnor fly half Basil Strang has signed his first professional contract with Greene King IPA Championship side London Scottish.