THE new general manager of Sale FC Rugby has pledged to bring back the glory days and put the club back into the heart of the community.

Dave Hulme, whose credentials include 25 years in the nuclear and petro-chem industry and 16 years in the NHS, was appointed general manager last month.

He said: “We are in the enviable position of being one of the oldest and most famous clubs in the country, and I want to build on this position both on and off the field.

"I want to develop the links we have with our local community and business networks and make sure our facilities are the best for everyone who visits us."

As well as his stints as vice-chair and acting secretary, he has also coached and managed the Mini and Junior teams, of which his son Matt is a member.

His plans for the club include making the most of the club’s hospitality suites and improving the ground, with considerable work being undertaken on the pitch.

Dave said: “I have been given the privilege of making the club the best it can be, not just for our current members but for members who follow us in years to come.

“My vision is that we return to the glory days of the past by playing the best level of rugby possible.”