Stabs has been keen on getting the prop back into the fold since Painter announced he was standing down as coach at Tech.

And he acted immediately when Michael Cook was persuaded to stay in the National Leagues by Mowden Park ... which is where former forwards coach Stu Whitehead is also apparently heading.

Stu, as well as Cooky, has done a tremendous job for West not only with the pack but with bringing in young talent from Yarm School where he teaches. He's also been a superbly versatile player for west including his starring scoring role on the wing last season.

But there's no doubt Painter will be a tremendous replacement. He was one of the few local players to earn a place in Mike Brewer's Premiership side ..... and there has rarely been a player more proud to pull on the West jersey.

He says: "John got on the phone to me and to be honest I didn't take much persuading. West are building for the future, both on and off the pitch, and it will be good to be involved without having the commitment of being the main coach which is very time consuming.

"I have a lot of time for Greg Dougall and think we can work together with Stabs to produce a team which can more than hold its own next season.

"I may have to play as well but frankly I would much rather coach some up and coming props. I don't want any young talent to be put off because they think that I have the shirt. So, if there's any budding front row talent out there, all I can say is get down to Brinkburn on a Tueaday or Thursday night and I'll be delighted to see you!"

Stu Bennett will be delighted to see Painter return. He was in the frame to help out in the front row after a couple of excellent stand in performances last season.

He will miss the start of the season because of a ban which runs until Sunday September 15th.