Ian Robertson: The future without Cooke looks grim

Cooke had been in the full-time post for 17 months after spending the previous year in a part-time capacity.

"I am bitterly disappointed at the circumstances that have produced this outcome," Cooke said.

"The players and other staff have worked very hard over the past two years to help Bedford rise from the depths of the Second Division to achieve Premiership status, and I am very sad that my association with the club should end in this way."

Cooke informed the Bedford players and his colleagues of his decision on arriving at work on Monday morning, and will leave with immediate effect.

Warren hampered by funding problems

The club won the second division title last year but have found their first season back in the top flight disrupted by cash-flow problems.

Bedford's owner, Frank Warren has a long running legal dispute with fellow boxing promoter Don King, and his assets have been frozen by a court.

Player-coach Paul Turner has already left the club this season

In September player-coach Paul Turner left the club following a threatened player strike when there was a delay in paying salaries.

Cooke added: "I have spent most of my working life helping other people to achieve success, but now I find myself in a situation where I have to give priority to my future and that of my family.

"I shall miss the people who have worked with me in the development of Bedford Rugby, and I hope the club can surmount its current difficulties and remain in the top flight of English rugby.

"It is not a great time of year to be out of work, and my immediate priority is to find a new job."

He would not confirm whether the club's parlous financial situation had been the direct cause of his departure, adding: "I do not intend to make any further statements about this matter at this time."

Bedford's form in the second division last season did not translate to the fop flight, and they now find themselves languishing in 13th place, just four points above basement side West Hartlepool.

Cooke, who rejuvenated the England team in the late 1980s and early '90s after appointing Will Carling as national captain, was left to pick up the pieces after Turner departed.