Bristol Ladies announce departure of Marlie Packer

The flanker – who has 51 caps for England – leaves Bristol Ladies following an association with the club that dates back to 2009.

Yeovil-born Packer joins Saracens with immediate effect and the 27 year-old admits it was a difficult decision to leave the West Country.

“For a West Country girl, having to leave Bristol was always going to be hard, but I know with Kris and the new talent coming through, Bristol will be a force to be reckoned with,” she said.

“I’d like to thank the staff and players for all the support and wish them all the best as I move on to a different challenge in my career.”

Formerly on England Sevens, Packer helped England to a Rugby World Cup final in August. Head Coach Kris de Scossa added: “Marlie had a great World Cup and we were in contact before, during and after her return to Bristol.

“It became clear in our meeting last week that, like some other England players, the financial security of having had a full time contract and managing its removal was going to be challenging.

“Marlie always does her best on the field and I am sure she will embrace London and her new Saracens home. We, of course, wish her luck with the next chapter.”