Bristol sign ex-Bath flanker Josh Ovens a one-year deal

Ex-Bath flanker Josh Ovens has signed a one-year contract with Bristol.

The 25-year-old was released by the Premiership club last season after he suffered a potentially career-ending back injury in 2012.

Ovens spent time on loan at Bristol in 2011, external and, after training with Andy Robinson's side over the summer, he has now earned a permanent deal.

"Josh has shown tremendous character to return to fitness and be back on the field," Robinson told the club website., external

"Josh played arguably some of the best rugby of his career so far during his first spell with Bristol and we believe he is capable of recapturing that form if he keeps working hard."

Ovens made 21 first-team appearances, scoring two tries, during his loan spell with the Championship club.

The back-rower added: "It's been a long road but I'm so pleased to be back training and in a team environment.

"I'm grateful for the support shown to me by the club. Andy kept faith in me and now I can't wait to get back out on the field and represent the club again when I get an opportunity."