Bristol Bears have today officially confirmed second row Dave Attwood will depart the club at the conclusion of the 2021/22 campaign following three seasons back at his hometown club.
The England international lock, who has made 71 appearances for the club across two stints, helped the Bears to a maiden European title in October 2020 and a top place finish in the Gallagher Premiership in 2020/21.
Bristol Live understand Attwood has signed a two-year contract at local rivals Bath Rugby, meaning he will play until the age of 37.
Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam paid tribute to the impact Attwood has made since joining from Bath in 2019, using his experience to become a key leader, including captaining the club.
Lam said: "Dave has been an excellent servant to Bears during his time with the club. He's been a key part of our leadership group and a positive ambassador for our Bears Team Culture.
"We are grateful to Dave for everything he has contributed and he can be proud of what he has achieved in a Bristol shirt.
"Dave leaves with our best wishes at the end of the season and we know he will be fully invested in helping us finish the campaign strongly."
Attwood added: “I’m so grateful to Pat, the Lansdown family, and Chris Booy, for the opportunities they have afforded me with the Bears. I will obviously be fully committed through to the end of the season.
“I will be sorry to close this chapter of my career as the Bears has been such an exciting story to be a part of and I look forward to concluding the season with my teammates.”
