Baldwin: I've Got Great Memories At Bristol

In an open letter to supporters and team-mates, Baldwin told bristolrugby.co.uk:

I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to all the Bristol supporters for making my time here so special.

As I’m sure many of you can appreciate, there is only a small window of time in professional sport and, as a result, tough decisions have to be made.

I feel there is a good opportunity for me to go and play regular rugby, something that was not always possible at Bristol.

This was purely a rugby decision and bears no reflection on my fellow team-mates, management or the Club.

I have been fortunate enough to make some great friends and have wonderful memories from my time with Bristol Rugby. I love the city and that will continue long after my career has finished.

Something that I have particularly enjoyed is talking to supporters at Ashton Gate after games. It is what makes Bristol a special club.

I’d like to thank Andy Robinson for being so gracious in understanding the reasons for my departure.

Similarly, Matt Sherratt has done a huge amount of work with me behind the scenes and I am a more accomplished player than when I arrived – something I believe to be the biggest compliment for a coach.

The physio team and backroom staff have been fantastic with me.

Thank you to my teammates for working hard and making it such an enjoyable training environment. It has been a pleasure to take the field with you.

Finally, thank you to the supporters who have turned up to watch Bristol week in week out, your backing will continue to inspire the players.

Bristol is a great club and on the right track to be successful, I wish them all the best going forward.