PETER Finch has left Worcester Rugby Club after failing to agree on a new deal.

The fitness coach is expected to return to New Zealand later this year after spending two seasons at Sixways.

The 44-year-old had spent the past couple of weeks mulling over a new contract offer from the club but, with family ties back in New Zealand, Finch has decided to leave Worcester.

Finch arrived in 2001 along with John Brain from Gloucester and immediately made a big impression with the squad. And Brain is certain that the Kiwi will be missed.

"Peter was greatly respected by the players," Worcester's director of rugby said.

The Warriors, however, have acted swiftly to appoint a new conditioner for the squad. Phil Richards has returned to rugby after a one-year break from the sport. The 36-year-old was formerly at Swansea and has been a personal fitness trainer for sports stars such as England cricketer Marcus Trescothick.

"Phil has the reputation of producing very physical teams and I think if Worcester have maybe lacked something in recent years it is that physicality," added Brain.

Brain has also denied reports from Scotland that he is on the verge of signing Glasgow prop David Hilton.

Worcester, though, are ex-pected to seal a move for former Harlequins scrum-half Matt Powell tomorrow.