MARLBOROUGH have recruited former Tonga international Taufa'ao Filise as their forwards coach ahead of their first South West level campaign next season.

Filise, who played 17 times for his country, also enjoyed a club career that included a spell at Bath, stunts with Super Rugby franchises the Chiefs and Blues in New Zealand as well as more than 250 appearances for the Cardiff Blues, with whom he played his final game of professional rugby last season.

He joins the coaching team of head coach Elisi Vunipola, which includes Leo Tuliva and Lotu Ngungutau plus team manager Dave Pittams, while Marlborough have also secured a three-year sponsorship agreement with Compeed, alongside other arrangements such as Chilvester and Vets for Pets.

Club chairman Gary Sharp said: "This investment shows the backing we now have to build the club towards being a National League side.

"It also means we are now able to invest in the playing side by providing every player who plays for us with a new shirt and other kit free.

"This will be the first time we have had every player in the same new kit from age groups from six to seniors.

"Promotion is a huge step up and we now have some great players and support in the club that we want the town to really get behind.

"Next season you will be able to watch players that have played at the highest levels every week on the Common. We now have a very successful team who are also an excellent side to watch.''

Sharp added: "The town should certainly be proud of the achievements of the club as we now move up to playing against some big clubs from far bigger towns and cities.

"The atmosphere in the club is fantastic and huge credit goes to all the players, coaches, team managers and supporters for this. The club is working closely with the town council to develop the facilities in the town to support people playing and watching rugby at every age and level as part of the drive to increase engagement in sport for all.''