Last updated at 16:44, Thursday, 31 January 2013

A FORMER Evening Mail sports reporter has been appointed chairman of the Rugby Football League.

BIG JOB Brian Barwick PA

Brian Barwick will take up the non-executive role tomorrow. He has held a number of senior positions including, chief executive of the Football Association, Controller of Sport at ITV and a number of key roles within the BBC, including Head of Television Sport.

Welcoming the appointment, RFL chief executive Nigel Wood said: “I am delighted that we have been able to attract a sports administrator of Brian’s calibre. His track record speaks for itself.”

Barwick said: “I am absolutely delighted to accept the position as the new chairman of the RFL. Rugby league is a sport I have a genuine respect and affection for and I am determined to spread the word about what a great sport rugby league is, especially at this exciting time when we host the Rugby League World Cup in England Wales.”

He follows another person with links to the area into a high-profile RFL role, with former Ulverston amateur Ralph Rimmer, the governing body’s chief operating officer.

First published at 16:36, Thursday, 31 January 2013
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk