Lyn Jones leaves Newport Gwent Dragons by mutual consent

Newport Gwent Dragons have announced the immediate departure of director of rugby Lyn Jones.

The 51-year-old, who has missed the Dragons' past two games through illness, leaves by mutual consent after three years in the job.

Head coach Kingsley Jones will take sole charge until the end of the season as the Welsh region aim to improve their 10th-placed standing in the Pro 12 table.

Dragons chief executive Stuart Davies said: "As a result of Lyn's absence from work, we brought forward the end of season review.

"Whilst a frustrating and disappointing season is mitigated by a lengthy injury list and a record number of narrow defeats resulting in losing bonus points, both parties agreed it was best for the side that there was a new voice at the helm going forward.

"Taking the decision now affords Kingsley Jones, head coach, the opportunity to look after the side for the remaining games, ahead of us considering our options for next season."

Jones said: "While it's not been without its challenges, I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years at the Dragons.

"But with the club transitioning into a new era of potentially new ownership and new investors, the time felt right for me to step aside."

The Dragons are currently jointly owned by Newport RFC and the Welsh Rugby Union, but plans to become an independent region and attract new investment were announced earlier this month.