Harlequins have handed utility player Chris Melling a new two-year contract to keep him at the club until 2011.

The 24-year-old Great Britain cap has been at the Twickenham Stoop since joining Quins from Wigan in 2006.

"The next few years will be very exciting for the club," said Melling.

"At senior level Harlequins are developing into real contenders for the Super League, whilst at a junior level we are nurturing young talent and growing the game in London.

"I'm very happy playing my rugby in London and had no doubts about committing my future to Harlequins."

Quins coach Brian McDermott added: "He's got a driving ambition to represent GB again and we're going to do our best to help him get there."