Harlequins have announced the appointment of John Kingston as head coach

Kingston, who joined Quins' coaching staff from Irish club Galwegians in 2001, takes over from Andy Friend, while the club's current academy manager Colin Osbourne becomes assistant first-team coach.

Former England back-row forward Tony Diprose now moves up from assistant academy manager - a role he took after retiring from professional rugby in 2006 - to replace Osbourne

Quins rugby director Dean Richards said: "I am a true believer in natural progression within a club and rewarding individuals for their commitment and effort.

"I have a huge regard for all my coaching staff, and I am looking forward to next season."

Quins narrowly missed out on a place in this season's Guinness Premiership play-offs, but they will qualify for next season's Heineken Cup, provided Worcester do not beat Bath in the European Challenge Cup final at Kingsholm on May 25.

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