Steve Phillips quits as Welsh Rugby chief amid claims of toxic culture

Steve Phillips has resigned as chief executive officer of the Welsh Rugby Union amid allegations of a "toxic culture" at the organisation.

Phillips had resisted calls for his resignation, which came after a documentary aired allegations of misogyny, sexism, racism and homophobia at the game's governing body in Wales.

Former Olympic hurdler and Wales wing Nigel Walker moves up from the union's performance director to take the acting CEO position with immediate effect.

A number of former Welsh Rugby Union employees took part in an investigation by BBC Wales - which was screened on Monday night - with accusations about their time at the organisation, detailing claims of a "toxic culture" there.

Charlotte Wathan, general manager of women's rugby until her resignation last February, spoke of how a male colleague said in front of others in an office that he wanted to "rape" her, while another unnamed contributor says she was left contemplating suicide by her experiences of bullying and sexism at work.

WRU chair Ieuan Evans had vowed that an external taskforce will be established to help tackle the allegations that have been made.

Phillips attended the meeting about the new taskforce, but had since decided it was "time for someone else to lead the way".

"It is with a huge amount of regret that I have decided to hand in my resignation," said Phillips in WRU's statement.

"I have always had the best interests of Welsh rugby at the heart of my every action and thought, but have come to the conclusion that it is now time for someone else to lead the way.

"This is a sport I love and is so admired around the world and I wish everyone involved in the game every success and my heartfelt best wishes.

"I am absolutely aligned with Ieuan's