Farewell to departing players

Hooker Clara Nielson will leave Bears Women after nine years of service to the club which has seen her play an integral part in the club’s progress both on and off the field.

Over her near decade with the club Nielson has earned call-ups to the England international set-up – making her debut in 2019 on their tour to the US – as well as being a member of the Barbarians squad for their clash against Wales at the Principality Stadium in the same year.

Serena Settembri also leaves the Bears set-up after four years to return home to Italy.

Lauren Smyth will depart after two seasons in Bear Country while fellow Welsh international Gemma Rowland leaves after half a season in Bears colours.

Megan Wynne returns to Championship outfit Bath Ladies RFC after spending the 2020/21 season on-loan at Shaftesbury Park, while Stef Evans and Chelsea Jones also depart.

Everyone at Bristol Bears Women would like to thank the departing players for their service to the club and wish them luck in their next challenge.