Bath confirm Skirving departure

Bath on Tuesday confirmed that back row Ben Skirving will be leaving the club at the end of the season to join Bristol.

Skirving, who joined Bath from Saracens in 2009, has been a very reliable figure at the base of the scrum since he arrived, and often proving very effective on the break. He has made some 98 appearances for the club to date.

Speaking of the move, the back row said: “I’m sad to leave Bath, but am very much looking forward to my new challenge with Bristol.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my four years here, and have worked and played with a great bunch of players and coaches. My thanks go to all of them, and to all the Bath supporters, who have made playing for the Club such a good time for me.”

Head coach Gary Gold added: “Ben’s contribution to the Club cannot be underestimated, both in his on-field performances and his character and work ethic off it, and I’m sure he’ll have a similar level of impact and success at his new club. We will miss his experience and reliability, but wish him all the very best at Bristol.”