Bedford duo sign new contracts

Bedford has secured the services of captain Michael Le Bourgeois and prop Ben Cooper who have both signed new deals to stay at the Championship club.
Le Bourgeois is capable of covering a number of positions in the backline including centre, fly-half, wing and full-back and has been at the club since his arrival from Jersey in 2013.
After joining the Jersey Academy in 2008 he became the first Academy graduate and Jersey-born player to sign a professional contract at his home-town club.
The 26-year-old was named club captain at the Blues last season after impressing with both his versatility and his leadership.
Prop Cooper only rejoined the Blues in December after leaving London Welsh during their difficult season.
Having coming through at Cambridge RFC under former Bedford prop Mike Guess he first joined the Blues in 2012 and enjoyed two seasons at the club before joining Welsh.
During his first spell at the club Cooper made over 50 appearances and was part of the squad that reached the 2012/13 Championship final against Newcastle.
Bedford Director of Rugby Mike Rayer said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to secure the services of both Michael and Ben for next season.
“To be fair they have both attracted plenty of interest from other clubs, however after detailed discussions about our plans for next season, which have been outlined to me by the chairman and directors, they definitely both wanted to be involved with getting Bedford Blues back up the right end of the table.
“Michael has developed into an excellent player during his time with us and he is keen to lead the team going forward. Ben may have only been with us for a few months, but he knows the club and is thoroughly enjoying being back with us and we’re pleased to have him here.”