Peel, who is currently on a specialist front row coaching course in New Zealand, will be based at Kingston Park full time, working with academy manager John Fletcher in bringing through the next generation of Falcons stars.

“We held interviews for the job last week, and having spoken to a number of people Peely was the outstanding candidate.” said Fletcher.

“He has enormous potential as a coach, knows the club inside out and will provide great continuity for the youngsters coming through the system.”

Speaking on his appointment, Peel said: “I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity to work with John Fletcher in the academy, and to continue the great tradition that the club has of bringing young local players through in to the first team.”

Director of rugby, Rob Andrew, added: “We all know the sort of characteristics Peely will bring to the job, having worked with him for so long as a player.

“He is a club man, clearly knows his stuff and he’s shown he has the hunger to take up coaching on a full-time basis after suffering what was a massive setback with his enforced retirement as a player.”