Lee has progressed through the clubs ongoing coaching development programme; following his retirement as a club player he progressed as a coach with Alton 1st XV, Berkshire RFC and our very successful Ladies team before joining the Senior Coaching team two seasons ago.

Lee replaced Ngapaku Ngapaku (Pux) on Tuesday evening as Head Coach following the sad news that Pux is returning to New Zealand in early September.

Lee will be ably supported by all of last season's coaches, Steve Leonard, Ross Newton and Mark Vatcher, but also be supported by an increased presence of Ed Richardson.

As you know, Ed is a highly rated and very successful young coach who will not only help mentor Lee, but will also remain as part of Lee's coaching team.

We are always looking for new coaches and managers to developed through our club system to become the best they want to be, and hopefully, the next Head Coach or Senior Team Manager for Newbury Blues.

I trust that you will all support and assist Lee and his team in the exciting season ahead.