FORMER head coach Davy McGregor has said he wishes Ivybridge Rugby Club all the best in the future.

The Cross-in-Hand side decided to end the contract of the former Plymouth Albion hooker during the week with their first team bottom of Regional One South West.

McGregor has issued a statement and is keen to point out that he did not walk away from the club.

He said: “Unfortunately my time at Ivybridge Rugby has ended but first and foremost I would like to thank all players who have committed their time and allowed me the opportunity to add what value I could to help develop and improve the culture, playing ability and opportunities.

“My vision and passion to see a three-year plan for the club through, was very important to me as I believe there is a sleeping giant potential with the club. That said, I appreciate the club’s decision and understand the rationale to part company.

“Personally, I am grateful of everyone’s efforts on and off the field and in particular I’m very proud that in two years we as a coaching team have brought more players through into senior rugby than before and worked hard to improve the culture and community buy in.

“A special thanks to the rest of the management team including Trips, Aki, Tommo, James, Jason, Steph and Zach who have become good friends and have supported my ambitions and will continue to contribute on and off the field to the club.

“Thanks to the club’s board of directors as a whole for giving me an opportunity to get into coaching after my playing days were truly finished and allow me to coach my ‘home town’.

“Finally a thank you to the supporters and wider community who were behind the boys during some very tough periods but continue to show support and keep grassroots rugby truly alive.

“I wish everyone genuine success and will be following progress of the whole club closely.”

Ivybridge’s first team, whose chances of escaping relegation from Regional One South West are now slim, visit Exmouth today, while their second team, who are top of Counties Three Devon South & West, host Torquay Athletic II.