BURNHAM have already started their preparations for next season with the appointment of Graham Buller as head coach, having accepted Elisi Vunipola’s confirmation that this would be his last season.

A club statement said: “The club would like to thank Elisi, who has been with the club as player coach for seven years, and during a time that has seen the club progress from Tribute Somerset One to the Western Counties divisions.

“Elisi and his family have become very much a part of the club, and he will be remembered for his contribution in the development of both the club and the players, as well as providing his nephews, Billy and Mako, with their first senior games of rugby before they made it as professionals and now in the England squad.”

The club’s development plans are well underway with the installation of new floodlights last season, the RFU Seal of Approval this season and the commencement of the covered stand by the end of the year.

The club is now looking to recruit an assistant coach to work with Buller and help to co-ordinate coaching within the club.

It welcomes applications for the role by either calling Chris Jones on 07817-528996 or emailing chris_m_jones@hotmail.com