Worcester Warriors are today pleased to announce that long-serving hooker Chris Fortey has signed a new contract to extend his successful stay at Sixways Stadium.
Front row legend Fortey, who has played 144 games for the club, has been a hugely popular member of the Sixways dressing room and a hero to Worcester fans since making the switch from home city club Gloucester in 2005.
The 35-year-old is one of the all-time highest appearance makers in the history of the Premiership and has played over a 200 games in the top-flight.
Fortey has now agreed a six-month deal to remain at Warriors and provide cover for new signing Ollie Hayes, who is expected to miss the start of the season though injury.
He has also been appointed Forwards Coach at Stourbridge RFC for the 2011/12 season to continue the good work carried out by Tony Windo last season and maintain the strong and developing link between the two clubs.
Charlie Little, General Manager at Warriors, said the club had remained in talks with Fortey, who made 24 appearances last season, since his previous contract expired at the end of last season and were pleased to now agree new terms and the link-up with Stourbridge.
“With the successful academy system at Warriors giving us additional spending options within the salary cap. We have been able to agree short term deal with Chris,” he said.
“Chris starts on a level playing field with Aleki (Lutui), Ed ( Shervington ) and Ollie (Hayes) and has the determination and ambition to finish his career as a Premiership player.”
Meanwhile, Worcester Warriors can confirm that centre Greg King has been released from his contract at Sixways to move to RFU Championship club Moseley. King played 18 games for Worcester and scored three tries after coming through the Academy system.
Charlie Little said: “Greg was in contract for Warriors 2011/12 season but this move will ensure he gets more rugby. We wish him well and thank him for his services to Worcester.”