Premier 15s club Bristol Bears have signed Ireland international Lauren Delany.

The full-back, who can also play on the wing, is joining from ousted club Firwood Waterloo.

She also has 11 Ireland caps to her name.

Bears’ head coach Kim Oliver said: “She has a high rugby IQ, which is what is needed her position at full-back but she’s also a strong runner with the ball in hand and she can be another threat for us in attack.

“The level of talent that we have in the squad is exceptional and it’s great to be able to attract players of Lauren’s quality as we look to continually to drive our standards and progress on the pitch.”

Delany added: “I’m really excited to sign for Bristol Bears Women. It’s been a tough few years in the Premier 15s and I’m looking forward to taking the next step up in my club rugby ambitions.

“My move to the South-West is a big one for my rugby development and career, and I believe the Bears set-up with Kim as Head Coach is the perfect environment to help me grow into the best rugby player I can be."

Women’s rugby does not currently have a restart to play date yet due to the coronavirus pandemic.