Departing chief executive Mark Evans reckons changing the Quins culture will be the most satisfying achievement of his tenure in charge at the Stoop.

Evans' spell at the helm has been a roller-coaster ride off and on the pitch as he paves the way to end his involvement with the club.

Relegation, European Challenge Cup trophy triumphs, Premiership play-off appearances and the 'Bloodgate' scandal have all happened on the pitch during his watch.

Off it, average attendance has grown from 3,000 to 12,000 a game, season tickets sales have risen from 1,000 to 7,000 and the stadium capacity has reached more than 15,000 - making it one of the largest purpose-built rugby stadiums in the country.

A predominantly England-qualified squad - including five full internationals - currently stands fourth in the top flight and seems set for the knock-out stages of two cup competitions.

But Evans, architect of the Christmas Big Game fixture at Twickenham Stadium, insists success off the pitch gives him the most pleasure.

"Quins is a very different club to what it was ten years ago," he said speaking from the grounds of the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.

"We've kept its traditions and we've supplemented them.

"Now we're a side with a good following, a good stadium and a terrific conveyor belt of young talent coming through.

"That is what pleases me the most. I'd like to think I've helped change the culture here. It is a very different kind of place."

Evans quits his current post at the end of the month to go part-time as he bids to set-up a sports events consultancy.

Club sponsors Etihad Airways have been instrumental in making the first competitive domestic fixture to be played overseas possible.

And while Evans has praised the success of Sunday's event he is set to focus on things a little closer to home.

"You've got to hand it to Wasps for having the bravery, vision and sheer tenacity to make this work," he added.

"I think I can still improve what is on offer in the UK and hopefully I can add a bit to one or two sports - including rugby."

*The Surrey Comet and Richmond & Twickenham Times' coverage of 'Quins in Abu Dhabi' comes in association with Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA).

For details on all trips to Abu Dhabi call 0207 201 6400, e-mail uk@adta.ae or visit visitabudhabi.ae.