FORMER Worcester Warriors flanker Mat Gilbert has accepted a role of Vice President with the England Deaf Rugby team.

Gilbert was released by the Sixways club at the end of the season and is currently looking for a new club.

He wants to encourage more players across England to take up deaf rugby.

England deaf rugby chairman Tony Stoyles said: “We are all looking forward to working with Mat as he has a wealth of experience and is a very likeable chap. This is excellent news for England Deaf Rugby.”

The 30-year-old joined Warriors in October 2014 after leaving Bath and made nine appearances for Worcester.

Gilbert began his career at Llanelli Scarlets and had a spell at Mogliano in Italy before moving to Bath.

Stoyles said: “Mat is the only deaf professional sportsman in England and we are proud to have him in the camp.

“His influence and presence will be superb for us, the existing men’s and women’s squad, and any new players who are looking to join the squad.”

Stoyles added: “He has an impressive record with England Deaf Rugby and has played 11 times for the England Deaf Rugby XV."