CHINNOR have retained 11 players for their second season in the third tier of English rugby.

Head coach and hooker Dan George has re-signed for the Thame-based club, who finished tenth in their debut campaign in National League 1.

Caolan Ryan, Joe Dancer, Jack Ramshaw, Ben Thomas, Tom Ranaboldo, Ben Manning, George Oliver, Bertie Hopkin, Orisi Nawaqaliva and George Grose have also been retained.

Chinnor’s director of rugby Matt Williams is delighted to keep the core of his squad together and is hopeful a number of other players will also stay on.

He said: “To have consistency for next season is important and we have learned that a small squad doesn't work at this level.

“I'm currently in discussions with a few other boys from this season and I'm hopeful we will have a final squad of circa 34 players with a few more retentions to be announced, in addition we have some fruitful pro partners that we will disclose shortly.”

The retained list builds on the three new signings Chinnor have already made for next season, having bolstered their front row with the additions of Nick Selway, Joe Rees and Camilo Parilli-Ocampo.

George, who joined the side last summer, added: “I’m delighted to have committed to Chinnor next season and I think we are creating something really special with the retained players from this season’s squad as well as the impressive additions Matt has managed to bring into the club.

“It’s extremely exciting times for the club and I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of its progression this year."