The new director of Carlisle Rugby Club has spoken of her desire to help inspire a community following on from the international success of former player Chris Harris.

Sue Glendinning was named as the new director at the club last month and has expressed her delight at being able to take the reigns at such an exciting time for rugby in the city.

In the works already are new plans for a revamped home for the club, she reveals.

"We're in discussions with an architect but we do know what we want- what we can get for what we've got! We're hoping that a contractor will be able to deliver the development that we are looking for basically to update the facility to make them more flood resilient and give us more floor space.

"It's an interesting time- hopefully we can get that work done in the next two years. It will put the club on a really firm footing building wise."

She confirmed that the new development would ensure the future of the club as they aim to inspire the next generation of homegrown talent.

The club is currently in celebratory mood following Chris Harris' British and Irsh Lions test bow last weekend.

"It's fantastic.One of our own has been able to achieve the pinnacle. Although they were beaten at the weekend, Chris can certainly build on that.

"For us,we're just so proud of him- he still keeps in contact with members of the club.

"We're hoping that his success can inspire our young players to want to follow suit and give their time and effort to the game to follow in his footsteps."

The first female director of the club, Sue also spoke of her hopes that she can inspire young women to also reach the pinnacle of the sport.

"To be the first president just shows the changes that have gone on for the better in society and sport."

She added: "I want as many young people to be involved as possible. It's not just the men who are running things!"