Bristol Head Coach Richard Hill has made no secret of the fact that he's been looking to sign an experienced second row and he's done just that with the announcement that Wales' most capped international, Gareth Llewellyn, is coming to the club.
The 36 year old second row has won 92 caps for Wales and captained his country seven times. He has also appeared in three Rugby World Cups - 1995, 1999 and 2003. He made his Welsh debut back in 1989 against New Zealand and broke the Welsh appearance record in the 2004 Six Nations match against Italy.
Richard Hill revealed his latest signing to the official Bristol website from France where he is on a coaching course.
"I've been looking to add some experience to the team. With the likes of Mark Regan and Gareth Llewellyn in the team, we'll have a really strong spine to the side."
"We've been talking for a few weeks now and I'm absolutely delighted to add someone of his calibre and experience to the squad."
Gareth himself is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead at Bristol:
"I've played almost everywhere throughout my career, from the Celtic League to the French Championship. The four years that I spent at Harlequins were the most enjoyable of my career in terms of the competition."
"I was out of contract at Narbonne and I told my agent that I wanted another crack at the Premiership. I'm really pleased to have joined Bristol at such an exciting time in their development and can't wait for the season ahead."