WORCESTER Valkyries have appointed Roy Davies as their new director of rugby.

Davies arrives from Bristol having led them to a top-of-the-table finish in the Women's Premiership last season before they were narrowly defeated 17-8 by Aylesford Bulls in the grand final at Sixways.

The 35-year-old from Llanelli spent two years at Bristol where he began as forwards coach before being promoted to head coach.

Davies has four years of experience coaching within the RFU junior academy and was head coach of Gloucestershire women.

Having also previously coached at Wells and Brighton Davies used to play his rugby in the Gloucester academy, Hartpury College, Moseley and Lydney.

A level three qualified coach Davies also has a PGCE in PE and a degree in sports coaching.

He said: "I'm extremely pleased to be joining a club with such a rich history in the women's game.

"After meeting the board it is clear the intention is to create an outstanding player experience that will allow every player to develop to their potential and that very much aligns with my philosophy and values.”

Worcester Warriors managing director Gus Mackay said: "Roy has a wealth of experience in the game and more importantly the women's game.

"He's shown his credentials having led Bristol to last season's Women's Premiership final and hopefully he can now turn the fortunes of the Valkyries and help them achieve their goal of becoming a top-end side in the new Super Rugby competition.”

Valkyries won the Women's Premiership in 2012, becoming the first side outside of London to do so, but have not managed to repeat the feat since, having finished fifth in last season's competition and missing out on the play-offs.

Davies continued: "There is an excellent group of players at Worcester and I look forward to working with them to build something special that allows us to achieve top-four status on a consistent basis.

"With the creation of Super Rugby the RFU have made a clear commitment to raising standards and professionalising the women's game and it's an exciting time to be involved.”

The rest of Valkyries' backroom team is still being finalised with appointments to be made in the near future.

Their pre-season will begin on Tuesday, July 18, with sessions running every Tuesday and Thursday.

Valkyries will also be running a series of open trials throughout pre-season for both experienced players and talented athletes who feel they have something to offer the game.

Anyone who is interested in joining is asked to email rndavies17@hotmail.com.