Nailsea & Backwell RFC have announced Chris Hurd has joined their coaching set-up for the 2023/24 season. 

Hurd joins head coach Tony Hill and Bristol Bears’ Yann Thomas to form an experienced team for the upcoming Counties 1 Tribute Western North campaign.

The Raves finished in fourth place last season and Hurd said he is looking forward to joining the side as their new coach.

"I am excited to be part of Nailsea & Backwell RFC in a senior coaching role," he tod the club's Facebook page.

"I’ve always felt so welcome whenever I’ve been there in a coaching or work capacity. The chance to get back to just coaching and continuing to develop and hone my craft has been a big factor.  

"This along with the group of players engaged in the culture that has been created by Tony (Hill) and the continued growth of wanting to be better on and off the pitch was a motivating factor."

Hurd has had spells at Weston-super-Mare RFC, Castle Cary, Avonmouth, Gordano and had a spell with Eddie Jones’ senior men's England team in this year's Six Nations as their support coach.

Hurd was given the role following an extensive interview process with Jones and forwards coach Steve Borthwick.

He also comes with a wealth of experience from his years with the RFU as a coach mentor and coach developer. 

And Hill said he is delighted to have Hurd join the set-up.

“As soon as Hurdy became available I was straight on the phone," he said. 

"He has enormous experience and we share an approach to environment, culture and coaching which I think is going to be hugely valuable to our group.

“We aren’t a club that ‘recruits’. Our philosophy as a club is about developing our players through our junior section to get to the best level we can.

"That’s why Hurdy is a great fit here. He has improved every player base he’s been involved with and I’m really excited about getting to work!"