Bristol confirm Dan Tuohy signing from Ulster

Bristol Rugby have confirmed the signing of Ireland international Dan Tuohy with immediate effect.

The 31-year-old will switch to the Ashton Gate based club immediately after spending seven years with Pro 12 club Ulster. He also had stints with Gloucester Rugby and Exeter Chiefs before joining Ulster in 2009.

The 6 ft 5 in lock has played for Ireland 11 times after making his debut against New Zealand at New Plymouth in June 2010.

The news on Tuohy's signing comes after Bristol confirmed the appointment of Connacht boss Pat Lam as the head coach of the Aviva Premiership club on a three-year contract.

Bristol's acting head coach Mark Tainton was pleased with the signing of Tuohy and believes his experience at international as well as the club level will benefit the club.

"We are pleased to welcome Dan into the fold - he is a formidable presence in the second row and an experienced lineout operator," said Tainton.

"I know Dan well from his time in the Ireland international set-up. His knowledge of the game at the highest level, as well as his leadership skills, will be of significant benefit to the team."

Bristol are in danger of relegation as they languish at the bottom the table with four points from 10 matches.