WALKERBURN has become the first rugby club in the Borders to appoint a female president.

Kinta Lindsay was voted into position at the club’s AGM in September to replace the outgoing David Preacher.

The historic appointment is breaking gender barriers, with just one other rugby club in Scotland believed to have had a female president previously.

And Ms Lindsay, who has served in a number of roles at the club including vice president, is looking forward to continue building a friendly environment at the club as she takes the reins at Caberston Haugh.

Speaking to the Peeblesshire News, 54-year-old Kinta said: “I have to say that I’m really chuffed!

"It’s great to be part of a club and a town that’s such a warm place.

"I’ve been a part of the club intermittently for a while now.

"I first went along to a sevens tournament one year and then got asked to do the first aid.

“I’m originally from Australia, and even as an outsider, so to speak, I was always made to feel welcome here.

“My aim as president is to continue to build upon that community-friendly environment, one that caters to everyone: family, women as well as our players and ex-players.

“Above all, it’s about serving our community that we depend on for our continued existence.”

Walkerburn has struggled both on and off the pitch over the past decade.

And several rescue mission were mounted to prevent the club from folding.

This year has seen the Caberston Haugh club enjoy a revival with a team returning to competitive action following a two-year hiatus.

And Kinta's appointment is further evidence of the progressive nature of the club.

Whilst Kinta acknowledges that it is rare for women to be appointed to the senior roles in Borders rugby, she insists that there is plenty of room for both sexes at the top.

She explained: “It seems that a tradition has been broken, and that’s good.

"I think it shows that rugby is not stale and is willing to move forward into the future.

“The important thing for me is to say that just because I’m now president it doesn’t mean that we’re going to break all our traditions.

“So, we want to move with the times, but we’re not going to lose that thing that makes Walkerburn so special.

“Just because I’m at the helm, doesn’t mean I’m going to paint the club pink!

"We have such great players and committee members here.

“I think the future is very bright for Walkerburn Rugby Club.”

Walkerburn have enjoyed a fine start to the season.

The club recorded a thumping 94-12 win over Caledonian Thebans at home last weekend.