Paul Hodgson insists he will still be involved with Sutton & Epsom next season.

Having started playing for Sutton at the age of six, Hodgson developed into a first team player before going on to enjoy a professional career for Bristol Rugby, London Irish and Worcester Warriors.

The 33-year-old, who made nine appearances for England, decided to return to Rugby Lane last summer for one season.

Hodgson made his decision in the hope of firing his boyhood club to promotion to the National League – something which was achieved with two games remaining and crowned with Saturday's 71-5 demolition of Twickenham in the last game of the season.

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The scrum half insists he loves the club and hopes to be involved in next season’s campaign.

Hodgson said: “The club is so close to my heart, I would do anything for it.

“I’m not sure I’ll be involved in a playing capacity, but I will support the club in any way I can.

“I still want to be involved.”

Lee Cholewa’s Sutton & Epsom side dominated the London Division One South winning 23 of their 26 games, scoring the most points, conceding the fewest and finishing 14 points ahead nearest rivals Guildford.

They were crowded champions on April 9 after beating Medway 25-18.

Hodgson added: “I did not feel I needed to return, but then the club made their ambitions clear and I wanted to be part of it.

“To be able to take the club up  is brilliant - that was everyone’s aim and we did it in style.”

All pictures: Dave Jackson