CRAIG Burrows believes Grove will benefit from having a new head coach after calling an end to his five-year spell in charge.

The south Oxfordshire side announced last week the Welshman had left the club after helping them secure a fourth successive season in English rugby’s sixth tier.

Burrows, who guided Grove to their first Oxfordshire Cup triumph in 2015, felt it was time for a new challenge.

He said: “It came down to the fact I had been there five years, achieved a lot, and taken them as far as I felt I could.

“I thought they could benefit from bringing someone in with new ideas to take them forward.”

Appointed in July 2011, Burrows guided Grove to promotion from Southern Counties North during his second season in charge.

He has since established the club in South West 1 East and last year led them to victory over Oxford Harlequins to become county champions.

Grove’s progress this season has been hampered by a lack of player availability and they needed a last-minute match-winning try in their penultimate game to avoid relegation.

But overall, Burrows, who will remain as Oxfordshire’s head coach, is happy with what he achieved at the club.

He added: “Five years ago we had a plan of promotion and staying up.

“The county cup was a huge bonus that we had never dreamed to mention when we started.

“I am confident I have left things in a better state and am happy to move away.

“The club were fantastic in giving me a chance and thanks to them.

“We both agreed that it was a good time to go our separate ways.”

A club statement reads: “Grove would like to thank Craig for his contribution during this time and wish him every success with his future projects.”

They are now seeking a new head coach and applicants should apply to club secretary, Martin Stalder, at martinofnorthmoor@btinternet.com.