Jake Armstrong has left Bristol Bears with immediate effect

Tighthead prop Jake Armstrong has exited Pat Lam’s Bristol Bears with immediate effect. A club statement read: “Jake Armstrong will depart Bristol Bears with immediate effect after four and half seasons at the club.

“The tighthead prop, who joined Doncaster Knights on loan in September, has made 32 appearances for the Bears since signing in 2018. Armstrong leaves the club by mutual consent after agreeing to an early release from his contract.”

Director of rugby Lam said: “We are grateful to Jake for his contribution on and off the field during his time at the Bears. He departs with our best wishes for the future and can be proud of what he has achieved as a foundation Bear. We wish him well with his future endeavours.”

Bristol also announced they are to host Cardiff in a friendly on November 11. A separate statement read: “Bristol Bears will host Cardiff Rugby in an Anglo-Welsh friendly clash at Ashton Gate on Friday, November 11. Season ticket holders will receive free access as the replacement game for the cancelled Worcester Warriors fixture.

“Tickets start from just £25 for adults and £10 for children and as a thank you to our loyal supporters, fans can also take advantage of free travel to the game via the AG3 bus route from Temple Meads via Broadmead and the city centre. As with every year, the club will recognise Remembrance Day at this fixture with a minute’s silence and a rendition of the Last Post before kick-off.

“In a return fixture, the Bears will face Cardiff at the Arms Park on Friday, February 24, providing the perfect appetiser for Wales versus England in the Guinness Six Nations the following day.” Chief operating officer Tom Tainton said: "We have worked hard to add another fixture to the schedule for our season ticket holders.

"We extend our gratitude to Cardiff Rugby for their cooperation in agreeing to the game. An Anglo-Welsh derby under the lights is an exciting prospect and we look forward to an entertaining occasion at Ashton Gate.”