Watford have confirmed that rugby union side Saracens will end their tenancy of Vicarage Road at the end of the season. The two sides have shared the stadium since 1997, but the rugby club intend to play on a plastic surface at the redeveloped Barnet Copthall Stadium when their lease ends in June 2011.

Hornets chairman Graham Taylor said: "We originally presented Saracens with a September 3 deadline to make a decision about their future after June 2011.

"Despite this deadline not being met, I believe we have shown understanding, empathy and no little patience in wanting to conclude this matter in the best interest of both parties.

"But with Saracens now seriously pursuing another option we feel the time is right to provide some definition and clarity. We are very comfortable with our decision and now we want to push forward with the plans we have been starting to formulate.

"The development of Vicarage Road into a stadium of which we can all be proud remains our key focus."