MELROSE rugby chiefs have appointed a new commercial manager ahead of stepping up to the semi-professional Super Six next year.

David Peace was unveiled in the new post on Friday.

Mr Peace has already led Melrose to become the first Scottish Premiership club to win Positive Coaching Scotland accreditation.

And he is also one of the club's youth coaches.

David, who is chair of the Rugby Business Network and a board member of Borders College, said: "I am excited by the potential in working with one of Scotland’s most successful rugby brands of recent times.

"The world renowned history, as birthplace of rugby sevens, is just one part of the story that I am looking forward to promoting.

"I believe that we have a strong identity not only about the sevens, but also regionally, the Scottish Borders having produced many notable players and coaches, and I am keen to build on this history as we move into the latest chapter of Scottish rugby.”

With Melrose having been awarded one of the new Super Six franchises in Scotland there are going to be opportunities and challenges for the club.

And it is hoped David will play a pivotal role in maintaining existing relationships whilst working alongside the existing board members to ensure continuity.

Melrose chief executive Trevor Jackson said: “It feels that, with the appointment of David, we are ensuring that we are opening our doors to offer a unique commercial proposition to any potential partner going forward.”