Joe Batley makes Bristol Bears return

Bristol Bears have announced that versatile forward Joe Batley has rejoined the club with immediate effect.

Batley will head to Ashton Gate following Worcester's suspension from the remainder of the ongoing season after their financial collapse which saw the players and staff contracts terminated.

The 26-year-old started his professional rugby career with Gloucester in 2014 and made a switch to Bristol ahead of the 2017/18 season during which he also a loan stint with Leicester Tigers. He has made 19 appearances for Bristol spread across three seasons.

Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam is pleased to have the services of Batley back.

"It's been a challenging time for Joe and his family, but we are pleased to be able to bring him back into a club and system he knows and enjoys," said Lam to the club's official website.

“He's grown and developed massively during his time in Worcester, and I know he will add real value to our team going forward.”

Bristol are positioned fourth in the Gallagher Premiership table with three wins from four matches.