Quintet are shown door by Bedford Blues

Former club captain Richmond used to play for Northampton Saints

Bedford Blues have confirmed that Dan Richmond, Robin Boot, Laurence Ovens, Joe Clark and Edd Thrower will all leave the club.

Will Chudley, Myles Dorrian, Duncan Taylor and Chris Goodman had already confirmed moves to Newcastle, Exeter, Saracens and Esher respectively.

Director of rugby Mike Rayer said: "Everyone leaves with our best wishes.

"We must look to the future, continue the good work that went into last season and try to take the next step."

He added: "It is always a difficult period when the season draws to an end and you have to make some very tough decisions about taking the team forward.

"We've already passed on our congratulations to the lads moving into the Premiership, but it is important that we as a club we give thanks to the players who will not be with us next year.

"Many of the players have played a very important role during their time with us, particularly Dan Richmond who was club captain up until last season."

Bedford lost in last season's Championship play-off semi-final to Worcester after finishing second in the table and they have already signed eight players this summer.

Rayer said: "There is a lot of impressive recruiting going on in this league and I am delighted with the new signings that we already have in place who will have a massive impact on the season ahead."