BATH have confirmed that Darren Atkins has signed a new contract with the club.

The Academy product will graduate into the senior squad ahead of the 2018/19 season, having made seven senior appearances most recently in the 21-8 Anglo-Welsh Cup victory against Newcastle Falcons on Saturday.

The full-back was also part of the England U20 team that reached the U20 World Championships final last summer in Georgia.

Atkins said: “I’m really excited to be moving from the Academy to senior squad next season.

"My time in the Academy has been a huge learning curve for me, but it’s been really beneficial. I’ve had a taste of first team rugby, and so now I’m looking forward to pushing on, continuing my development here and challenging for a regular place in the team.”

Director of rugby Todd Blackadder added: “Darren is a player with huge potential, and he showed that again on the weekend against Newcastle.

“He’s got an impressive attitude for a young lad, and I know that he’ll keep learning from the likes of Anthony Watson and Tom Homer, and that will help him to really flourish in the coming seasons.”

Bath confirmed the loan signing of Bristol Rugby centre Will Hurrell until the end of the season yesterday.

The 28-year-old links up with Bath with immediate effect, after helping Bristol to an unbeaten start to their Championship campaign.

Blackadder said: “We’re delighted to bring Will in – he showed last season what he can do in the Premiership, and I have no doubt he will show those qualities during his time with Bath.

“Will gives us that added depth in the midfield, which will be really useful as we approach a critical part of our season.”