Lee Fortey has been named as Lydney’s new head coach.

The one-time Newport, Gloucester and Worcester Warriors prop has a wealth of rugby experience, and his immediate aim is to steer the club back into South West Premier after last season’s relegation.

Lydney will play in South West One West this season alongside the likes of Newent, Thornbury and Keynsham and Fortey said: “Our aim must be to get Lydney back into the tier above as a minimum.”

That won’t be easy of course, but Lydney are confident that they have the right man in Fortey.

“He brings a wealth of rugby experience having played at the top level with Newport, Gloucester, Worcester Warriors and also England Under-21s,” a club statement read.

“He has held many coaching positions and is the ideal candidate to get the Severnsiders promoted back to South West Premier.”

Those coaching positions include a spell at Old Centralians and Fortey added: “I’m really excited by the prospect of this new role at Lydney and the chance to immediately work with a talented squad of players.

“I have had a short break from coaching so am fresh and up for the challenge.

“We have a few experienced heads but have some young exciting prospects that I will look to develop in the first team squad.

“We want to get Regentsholme back to the fortress it once was, so I will be immediately looking for a dominant pack to build our base from.

“Hopefully I can not only bring some new ideas but also unite the side to play with passion and a real team spirit.

“Immediately, I would like to hear from any interested players who want to join a club offering top rate facilities and have one of the best grounds in the county.

“Training will start in early July so we are looking to recruit now.”
Fortey takes up his post with immediate effect and will be supported by Dave Emery. Interested players should contact Emery on 07887 844347.

Lydney start their 2018/19 league season with a home match against Launceston on 1st September.