Colchester have made a high-profile signing, with Premiership stalwart Mike Haywood joining his old club as forwards coach from the start of next season.

Southend-born Haywood, who started his rugby career at Colchester while part of the Northampton Saints academy, went on to play 269 matches at hooker with the Franklin’s Gardens, scoring 34 tries.

After recently announcing his retirement from the Saints, 31-year-old Haywood will join the staff of the renowned rugby school St Joseph’s College in Ipswich.

From next season he will also help coach the forwards at Colchester, but for the time being he will not be available to play.

“I always wanted ultimately to move back home at the end of my playing career,” said Mike. “And the opportunity arose for me at St Joseph’s which felt too good to turn down.”

The appointment was welcomed by Colchester head coach Craig Burrows.

“Mikey is going to be a very big part of our coaching team next season. We’re looking forward to seeing what he is going to bring us.

“Fourteen years in the Premiership, he brings a lot of experience. We’re all very excited about it.”

President Maggie Whiteman said Colchester RFC was greatly looking forward to welcoming Mikey to his home club.