Billy Twelvetrees lands coaching gig after retirement

Former England centre Billy Twelvetrees has been named the new backs and attack coach of Hartpury, after announcing his retirement in June. 

The 35-year-old will make a return to Gloucestershire with the Championship outfit that have close ties with his former club Gloucester.

Twelvetrees spent eleven years at Kingsholm, registering over 270 appearances for the Cherry and Whites.

The former centre has plenty of experience of the Championship, having helped Ealing Trailfinders win the league in his final season as a professional.

Hartpury finished five places below Twelvetree's Ealing last season in the Championship.

"I’m very excited to be joining Hartpury Rugby," said Twelvetrees.

"It’s a fantastic opportunity to be part of an unbelievable rugby programme across the men’s and women’s pathway. The production line of players and national titles is unrivalled, and I can’t wait to be part of that.”

“It’s the start of my coaching journey and I couldn’t think of a better place than Hartpury to get going.”

Hartpury director of rugby John Barnes added: "It’s fantastic to bring someone of Billy’s calibre to Hartpury Rugby.

"Billy is a highly respected player and his rugby brain is second to none. With his proven pedigree, he will bring a high level of skill and knowledge to the players, and the coaching team.”

"This is a really exciting appointment for us, and we are looking forward to welcoming Billy to Hartpury Rugby."