Bradford & Bingley, who suffered a club record 122-5 defeat at Sandal last Saturday, have appointed Bulls legend Henry Paul as their director of rugby.

The 39-year-old New Zealand-born England rugby union centre will take over with immediate effect and will oversee every aspect of the club from the juniors upwards.

Paul, who was capped 24 times by New Zealand at 13-a-side and six by England at 15-a-side, will speak to the SSE National League Three North club’s first-team squad tonight to outline his plans for next season after what has been a difficult campaign for the Bees in 2012-13.

They only secured their survival two weeks ago with a 29-19 home win over Percy Park, wrap up their campaign at home to already-relegated Birkenhead Park on Saturday.

Bradford and Bingley’s chairman of rugby Peter Rae said: “We are absolutely delighted that Henry has decided to come on board with us.

“We believe that today should mark the beginning of a new era for our club.

“We have spoken at length about his plans for the club and I firmly believe this will be a fantastic time for players and supporters to be associated with Bradford and Bingley.

“Henry will have control of all aspects of rugby matters at Wagon Lane, through all the junior age groups up to the first team.”

Paul, who is unlikely to be used by the Bees as a player, has already held some coaching sessions with the juniors.