CHIPPENHAM have appointed stalwart scrum-half Tim Dunford as their manager of rugby.

But they have also lost key back row man Ian McNerlin, who has joined nearby Corsham.

Veteran Dunford succeeds Jerry Field, who stepped down because of work commitments.

Gloucester man Dunford joined the Allington Field club in 1989 and has been a first team fixture for the last 15 years.

He has also been heavily involved with the junior section, coaching the County Development side last season and the Wiltshire College team, based at Lackham.

Club chairman Ian Lyons said: "He is someone with the club's success at heart, is highly respected by everyone at the club and I have no doubt that his appointment will really move the club forward in terms of rugby at all levels."

Meanwhile, senior playing section chairman Robbie Spiers has paid tribute to the talented McNerlin, who will join Corsham's Dorset & Wilts One campaign next season.

Spiers said: "Ian is a player capable of covering both back and front rows and he had many happy and successful seasons at Chippenham.

"His son is showing an interest in playing with his Corsham school friends so Ian has decided to change his allegiances to his new club.

"All at Chippenham wish Ian and his family all the very best of luck for the future."

Chippenham players are reminded that training for the seniors is on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7pm.

BATH wing Simon Danielli has been included in Scotland's 50-strong preliminary squad for this autumn's World Cup.