WRU press conference live updates as new CEO Abi Tierney addresses Welsh rugby's most pressing issues

The Welsh Rugby Union has confirmed the appointment of senior UK Government civil servant Abi Tierney as its new chief executive.

She becomes the WRU's first woman chief executive and has vowed to make "lasting positive difference" in the role.

The appointment of Ms Tierney was revealed by WalesOnline on Wednesday, with the WRU now confirming the news that the director general for customer services at the Home Office will join the union by the end of this year after serving notice at the Home Office, where she also serves as an ethics advisor and chair of its people committee.

She will take over from interim chief executive Nigel Walker, who took up the role after former WRU boss Steve Phillips stood down from his £359,000-a-year remunerated role in January following a BBC investigation claiming a culture of sexism, misogyny and homophobia at the union.

Her father played rugby for Barry, Dinas Powys and Glamorgan Wanderers. Ms Tierney is a life-long supporter of Wales and is no stranger to the Principality Stadium.

Following her appointment, she will now face the media for the first time this afternoon. You can follow updates from that press conference live in our blog below.

Live updates below: