A latest new squad member signed by the Cornish Pirates on a one-year contract is young backrower Bear Williams.

Paddington-born Bear, aged 20, first played rugby as a nine-year-old at Pulborough rugby club, after his family had moved from South London to West Sussex.

Educated at Cranleigh school in Surrey, he has played for Rosslyn Park and, for a short stint, for Marist St. Pats RFC in Wellington, New Zealand.

Welcoming Bear fully on board with the Cornish Pirates, joint head coach Alan Paver said:

“Hearing of Bear’s rugby ambitions and ability from former Cornish Pirates director of rugby Ian Davies provided a good recommendation for him to initially train with us late last season.

“Since his arrival he has shown himself to be an absolute star. Also, by displaying a great attitude and being fully committed, he is popular with everyone in the squad.”

Bear also commented: “Having had a spell helping coach at Christ’s Hospital School in Horsham, and asking questions of Ian Davies about the Cornish Pirates, I was so grateful to be given the opportunity earlier this year to train with the club.

“The squad form an admirable group of players who have a winning culture and work really hard. They also have ambition, as do I, and naturally I love being here in Cornwall.”