Firwood Waterloo have appointed a new head coach ahead of their first season out of the Premier 15s.

Mike Smith, who was the club’s assistant coach last season, will take now take over the reins.

Smith, who is also a police officer, said: "I am delighted to be asked to continue the work I started last year with Firwood Waterloo Women. 

"The shortened season and subsequent uncertainty have been really hard on the players but we are now able to make plans to build an exciting, strong Championship side whenever rugby recommences.”

Waterloo were ousted from the top tier of women’s rugby after a re-tendering process in April.

And chair of Women’s Rugby, Christine Braithwaite, added: “From his playing days in the police, to his coaching roles of increasing responsibility, Mike brings a wealth of experience to the table.”