Bedford's disappointment at Lane exit

The 27-year-old, one of the most popular players at the club over the last decade, was last week told his contract won't be renewed.

Bedford was one of several players given a short time-frame in which to agree to new deals.

He didn't and Andre Bester's response was to take the offer off the table, meaning the Yorkshireman will be looking for a new base only eight months into his second spell at the club.

He has had long discussions with Bester—and the club board—and the two parties will part by mutual consent but it's clear that Bedford will move on with a heavy heart.

"I've got to do what's right for my family and what's right for myself," he said.

"I don't think there's a way back now. What's happened has happened.

"I was offered a new contract but I wasn't going to sign it in the short time period I was given. I needed more time to talk to my family about things and work out what was happening with my community role.

"But in hindsight, it's probably the right decision anyway.

"My daughter's only 20 months old and I'm in a privileged position as a rugby player to be able a lot more time at home than if I was working in a normal.

"I've given my heart and soul to the club this year. I've had 60 hours a week working with the Foundation and I've also been club captain but maybe it's time to move on. I am hugely disappointed about it all."