JASON Bowers said leaving Chinnor was one of the hardest choices he has ever had to make.

Bowers will step down as head coach of the National 2 South club at the end of the season after more than six years due to increasing work commitments.

Former Scotland and British Lions fly half Craig Chalmers, who joins Chinnor as director of rugby next month, will then replace him as head coach.

“If I am honest, it has been one of the toughest decisions of my adult life,” said Bowers.

“When I went to join the club back in 2006, it was only going to be to learn my trade.

“But John Brodley moved on and I was offered the head coach position, which was a real shock.

“Since then, I don’t think I have ever looked back.

“Chinnor has not only been a part of my life, it has been a part of my family’s life.

“My daughter Grace was born on the day of our first win under my charge at Rosslyn Park.”

Bowers took on a new role as the RFU’s area facilities manager last summer, which has led to increased travelling and demands.

And with a young family as well, Bowers felt he could no longer commit himself fully to Chinnor.

“I made the decision in September, but then I spoke to the Chinnor executive about it.

“I wanted to make sure we had a thorough process in place to find a new guy.

“It has been a tough secret to keep, but I feel like there is a weight off my shoulders now.

“Saying that, we have got ten games left and I am looking forward to them as much as my first ones.”

Bowers said this was a “really exciting time” for Chinnor and believes they can push on from their seventh place in the table.

“I think I have got the ability to do that, but I don’t think I have got the time,” he said.

“We are in a great position in the league and the second team are playing some scintillating rugby.

“I am immensely proud of the entire squad and the spirit we have got.”

Chalmers, who has coached Melrose to the Scottish Premiership title for the last two seasons, contacted Chinnor as he is moving south for business reasons.

Having someone of Chalmers’s pedigree on board is a big coup for Chinnor and even Bowers is hoping to get some coaching tips.

“I am looking forward to working with someone of his level,” he said.