Aviva Premiership: Bath reward back-row trio with new contracts

Bath have announced new contracts for back-row trio Matt Garvey, Leroy Houston and Guy Mercer.

Both Garvey and Houston arrived at the Recreation Ground ahead of last season, while Mercer moved through the club's academy system to senior status in 2011.

"Matt, Leroy and Guy are all talented players and offer different qualities that give us a good variety and strength in depth in the back-row," Bath head coach Mike Ford said.

"They are passionate about the club and committed to what we are trying to achieve here."

Garvey said: "It was an easy decision to make to stay at Bath. It is a great squad to be part of and we are all working hard to achieve our goals. My family and I were made to feel really welcome from the moment we arrived, and that also played its part in making me want to stay."

Houston said: "I've loved my time at Bath so far, and I'm really looking forward to progressing with the team. We've got world class facilities, fantastic coaches and top support staff – I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be to continue my career."

Mercer, who grew up in Bath, added: "There's no better feeling for me than running out in front of a packed out Recreation Ground wearing the colours of the team I've supported since I was a kid.

“There is a big emphasis on making sure players keep developing here at Bath, and you can see that it's paying off with the number of young players making their way into the first team. This is the best environment for me to keep progressing, and I'm excited to be part of the club going forward."