Ben Skirving joins the Bristol revolution

Ben Skirving is the latest Premiership player to join the Bristol revolution after the Bath No.8 agreed to join the Championship side.
Bath confirmed today that back-row player Ben Skirving will be leaving the West Country club at the end of the season to join their neighbours in their quest to return to the Premiership in 2014.
Former Scotland head coach and Bath legend Andy Robinson has joined earlier this month as their new Director of Rugby while Wasp Nick Robinson and Gloucester Peter Buxton have also agreed term for next season.
Skirving, who joined Bath from Saracens in 2009, has made 98 appearances for Bath.
He 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.”
“Ben is a very impressive individual with a wealth of experience,” said Bristol head coach Liam Middleton.
“He’s a widely respected professional who can become an integral member of our squad. Ben is a powerful ball carrier, a hard worker and gives us plenty of options in the lineout.
“We’re trying to build a squad with the right balance of youth and experience – Ben fits the bill of a player in the prime of his career.”
Bath 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.”