WORCESTER Warriors’ pre-season clash with Exeter Chiefs on Friday, August 29 will become the Craig Gillies Testimonial match, it has been announced.

Gillies will be in attendance alongside some old friends as supporters watch Worcester in action for the final time ahead of the new season.

It marks the end of an era for Gillies, who hosted a number of other functions and events last season during his testimonial year.

Warriors’ record appearance-maker hung up his boots at the end of the 2012/13 campaign after a decade at Sixways.

During his illustrious career at the club, Gillies became a firm crowd favourite and was a key component in the Warriors pack alongside the likes of Tony Windo, Tevita Taumoepeau and Pat Sanderson.

Gillies said: “I have a lot of good memories from my time at Warriors and I would like to thank the club for supporting my testimonial season.

“The testimonial game is the perfect opportunity for me to sign-off and I’m looking forward to seeing a lot of old friends.

“I am extremely proud to have achieved what I did at Warriors and it was an honour to make so many appearances for the club.”

Warriors executive chairman Cecil Duckworth CBE added: “Craig was a fantastic servant to Warriors during his 11 years. “You don’t often see that kind of commitment and loyalty in sport, which just goes to show the kind of character Craig is.

“He was an integral part of the squad that fought its way up to the Premiership and also played a big hand in helping us back to the Premiership in 2010/11.

“I hope everyone will come and support Craig’s testimonial when our new-look side face Exeter on August 29.”

The match is free to attend for season ticket holders, while general sale tickets for the match will be available to buy from mid-July.