UPPER Clapton have hired a former rugby international as their new coach for next season.

Tom Webb won 20 caps for Malta during his playing career and has also played for the East Midlands against the Barbarians.

He will now take the reigns of the Thornwood-based club after the departure of previous boss Peter Claridge, who resigned at the end of last season.

Danny Elmer, 40, who runs the club's development programme in schools, said: "It's like a dream appointment. He has had a great playing career, good coaching experience and lots of contacts at schools because he is a teacher in Harlow.

"I got to know Tom after coaching at Harlow Rugby Club last season. He was also coaching there and I learnt a lot from him. I was thinking of becoming coach at Upper Clapton but I believe Tom to be a much better coach than me."

Webb, 32, is looking to sign three or four backs from clubs in London One, which is a higher level than Essex One, which Upper Clapton currently play in.

He has been set a tough target of winning 50 per cent of their games this coming season before challenging for promotion the year after.

"I feel quite enthused and excited to be coach at Upper Clapton. I have got my ideas as to how I believe I should take this club forward.

"I am hoping to bring a blend of cohesive rugby that allows the lads to go out to play and win," Webb said.