BATH have snapped up London Irish back Tom Homer with Gavin Henson departing for Championship side Bristol immediately.

Homer has been released from the final months of his contract to link up with Bath, the 24 year old regarded as one of the brightest talents in English rugby.

Homer, an accomplished kicker who broke through in 2008, can play at play full-back, centre and wing and Bath head coach Mike Ford said: "Tom is an incredibly talented young player and he’s got a great attitude that will fit in well with the squad here and our policy of recruiting young, English talent.

"He already has a huge amount of experience, given he’s only 24, and we’re really looking forward to seeing him continue developing as a player here at Bath.”

Homer added: “You can clearly see the ambition, determination and drive that there is at Bath. There are a lot of talented players at the club and competition for starting places is fierce, but you want that as a player and I can’t wait to start training with the squad.”

London Irish Operations Director Bob Casey said Homer had requested to be released from his Exiles contract and added: “Having had a number of meetings with Tom about a new contract, it was clear that he wanted to move on. 

"We have plenty of cover in the back three with talented players like Andrew Fenby, Alex Lewington and Topsy Ojo so we are able to agree to Tom’s request for early release. 

"We have also signed a top class full-back in Sean Maitland for the 2015/16 season. We would like to thank Tom for all he has done for the club and wish him all the best for the future.”

Henson had initially signed for the Green King IPA Championship side for next season, but Bath have agreed to a request from Bristol for him to join up with them earlier than originally intended.

Ford added: “Bristol asked if Gavin could join up with them early, and knowing that he wants to get settled there, we were happy to agree to the request. Gavin leaving has meant Tom can join us straight away, and likewise he can start learning the ropes at his new club.”

Bath prop Paul James has again been named on the bench for Wales, who take on Scotland in their second Six Nations Championships match at Murrayfield on Sunday.