Northampton Saints can confirm that forwards coach Dorian West will be leaving the Club by mutual consent at the end of the 2017/18 season.

The 50-year-old originally joined the set-up at Franklin’s Gardens in 2007, and alongside Jim Mallinder helped guide the Club back into the top flight of English rugby and on to a series of trophies and titles – including claiming the Aviva Premiership crown in 2014.

West is one of the longest-serving coaches in the Aviva Premiership, but due to this season’s results the Saints board agreed that a change was in the best interest of the club.

“I would like to thank Dorian for everything he has done for Northampton Saints,” said chief executive Mark Darbon.

“We have been very lucky to have him at Franklin’s Gardens and he will always be a part of the Saints family.

“Dorian is a superb professional and is now firmly focused on helping the squad to finish the current season as strongly as possible.”

John White, Northampton Saints chairman, added: “Under Dorian’s guidance, the Club possessed the most ferocious pack in English rugby and his role in our triumphs over the last decade should not be underestimated.

“Dorian leaves with our very best wishes and thanks for everything he has contributed to Saints.”

Affectionately known around the Club as ‘Nobby’, West was part of the coaching set-up that clinched trophies for three seasons running at the start of his Franklin’s Gardens tenure.