Young trio sign for Bristol

Bristol have added three highly-rated young players to their ranks as plans for the 2017/18 season continue to take shape.

Mat Protheroe, 20, and 23-year-old back rower Dan Thomas arrive from Gloucester.

21-year-old Sam Bedlow joins from Sale Sharks, where the centre has made eight first team appearances since graduating through the Club’s Academy system.

Protheroe has represented England at U18s and U20s level, while Thomas previously captained Wales at U20s level.

Bedlow featured from the replacements bench when Sale Sharks visited Ashton Gate in October 2016.

“We’re delighted to beat off the interest of a number of other clubs to capture the signings of these gifted young players,” Head Coach Mark Tainton said.

“Mat is a hugely exciting player with bags of natural talent. He’ll bring some flair and energy to our attacking game and – under the tutelage of Pat [Lam]’s attacking philosophy – we expect Mat to make a significant impact in a Bristol jersey.

“Dan is a physical, openside flanker who has really impressed us every time he has played for Gloucester. He’s got Premiership experience and an excellent attitude to keep improving – it’s great to have him onboard and contributing to what we are we trying to achieve.

“Sam is a technically gifted centre who can distribute and read the game well. He’s coming to Bristol hungry to prove a point and establish a first team spot, so we’re creating healthy competition in every position on the field and a squad with real balance and energy.”