Former Scotland and British Lions skipper Gavin Hastings has been appointed chairman of Edinburgh.

The new-look club have also added to their squad on the pitch by signing Scotland prop Gavin Kerr.

The Scottish Rugby Union reassumed control of Edinburgh earlier this month after a bitter and public dispute with Bob Carruthers, who the governing body had sold the club to on a franchise basis a year previously.

They have brought arguably the most popular figure in Scottish rugby on board to try to transform their fortunes.

Edinburgh chief executive Nic Cartwright hailed the appointment of Hastings.

"Gavin is a real bonus for the club," he said. "Having seen his commitment and passion, I know that he will play a big part in driving our club forward."

Hastings said: "It is an honour to be working for Edinburgh Rugby Club.

"I have huge desire and passion to see this game and this club grow, and I will be working with Nic and the team to ensure that we achieve success as soon as possible."

Meanwhile, Kerr was unveiled as an Edinburgh player after finding himself unattached following the demise of Border Reivers.

Kerr, who is leaving for the World Cup with the national squad next week, has won 42 caps, the most recent of which was against South Africa last Saturday.

He said: "I am delighted to be signing for Edinburgh as it's a club that has so much going for it.

"The squad has a really good feel about it, and I can't wait to play my first game for the team."

Edinburgh also unveiled a new sponsor - building and timber supplier Jewson - and a fresh logo featuring the Scottish capital's castle.

Cartwright said: "The choice of the castle is one that the players were very keen to support and they will be looking forward to defending our castle on each and every match day."

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